Aaron Smith, director of the National Cannabis Industry Association, called the measure “a deeply flawed, monopolistic approach to marijuana reform.”

One reason national reform groups were so hesitant to back the measure, and so quick to denounce it, is that the measure seemed to confirm legalization opponents’ worst fears about the rise of “Big Marijuana” — an heir to the tobacco industry of old, focused on maximizing profits at the expense of public health. Playing right into this fear, the initiative’s backers sent a marijuana-themed superhero mascot named “Buddy” — reminiscent to many of Joe Camel — on a tour of Ohio college campuses.

Read more: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2015/11/04/ohios-failed-marijuana-bill-has-been-a-godsend-for-critics-of-legal-pot/