TOLEDO, Ohio — New laws took effect across Michigan and Ohio as 2026 began, bringing changes to gas taxes, marijuana regulations and classroom policies.
Michigan gas tax restructuring
Michigan eliminated its 6% sales tax on gasoline and raised the per-gallon gas tax from 31 cents to 52 cents. The tax revenue will fund future road projects.
Experts believe drivers may only see a slight increase when they fill up at the pump because of the shuffle.
Marijuana tax increases
Michigan’s new 24% wholesale tax on marijuana took effect Thursday, which is in addition to 10% retail and 6% sales taxes. That money also goes to road projects and is projected to generate at least $400 million per year.
In Ohio, changes to marijuana laws are set to go into effect in March, including restrictions on out-of-state purchases and a public smoking ban. A technical change will release previously withheld tax revenue for municipalities with dispensaries.
Ohio classroom phone ban
Ohio school districts had until the new year to implement plans for the state’s school cell phone ban, aimed at reducing distractions and improving students’ focus. Many districts, including Toledo Public Schools, opted to implement their bans at the start of the school year instead of the new year.
Election changes
Ohio gets a new congressional map for this year’s midterm elections that could make it easier for Republicans to unseat Marcy Kaptur. The Toledo Democrat will try to secure a 23rd term in Congress this year…