With the official start of legal adult recreational marijuana sales in Ohio, there are plenty of people eager to make a purchase. Wire service photos show lines of potential customers wrapping around buildings in some cities.

While that may be good news for those business owners — and therefore the economies in which they operate — excitement could turn sour quickly for those who do not understand (and obey) the laws.

First, there is a distinction between medical consumers and recreational consumers. That part seems simple enough.

Second, consumers must be over the age of 21 and have a government-issued ID that says so. It doesn’t matter what state issued the ID. But consumers along Ohio’s borders must remember laws are different in each state.

For example, Williamstown, W.Va., Police Chief Shawn Graham reminded drivers that if marijuana possession is discovered during a traffic stop, an officer will “charge people for having something that’s illegal in West Virginia.”

Marietta, Ohio, and Williamstown are connected by a bridge over the Ohio River.

“Even though you can buy it legally five minutes away, it doesn’t change the law once you cross the bridge,” he said.

Graham also noted a concern that will be shared by officers in Ohio.

“The biggest concern we have is people driving with it if they’re under the influence,” Graham said.

There are plenty of other rules, and most dispensaries are happy to help consumers sort through them all.

“Our patients and our customers need to be responsible and follow the law,” said The Cannabist Company Vice President of Retail Operations Erick Rodriguez. The Cannabist Company runs the Columbia Care dispensary in Marietta.

So, should you choose to contribute to what another The Cannabist Company official called “great for the revenue stream for the city,” educate yourself.

Consume responsibly, follow the law and NEVER drive under the influence.