A Message on the Closure of Buddy's Lounge in Athens, OH

Buddy's Bud Co. has permanently closed its Buddy's Lounge location at 10 S. Court St. in Athens, Ohio. This decision was made solely in response to Ohio Senate Bill 56, which prohibits the sale of intoxicating hemp products, including delta-9 THC and HHC products as well as THC beverages. Without being part of the closed door deals between corporate marijuana and state legislators, we were stuck between a rock and hard place without a real choice.

All products sold at Buddy's Lounge were fully compliant with the 2018 Federal Farm Bill at the time of their sale. Senate Bill 56 represents a change in Ohio state law that, as of its effective date, renders the continued operation of our Athens location unlawful. We are following the law.

The closure has resulted in the loss of five jobs in our Athens community. We are deeply grateful to our customers and to the people of Athens for three years of loyal support. We especially thank Big Mamma's Burritos for welcoming us into the space we called home.

Buddy's Bud Co. continues to operate in other states where our products remain legal and available. We did not choose to leave Athens. We were forced to.