Across the country, many states have taken steps to legalize marijuana. Under Oklahoma law, medical marijuana is legal. However, there are a few nuances in the statutes regarding the legalization and regulations of cannabis in the Sooner State. Here is what you need to know to understand medical marijuana in Oklahoma.
The Legalization Process
In June 2018, Oklahoma voters approved a measure to legalize medical marijuana in the state. With that passage, patients were given the right to possess, use, and cultivate medical cannabis. Under 63 O.S. § 420 et seq, those who qualified could now use marijuana for therapeutic purposes.
Along with that, the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) was also established. This government agency plays a role in administering and enforcing all regulations. Also, the OMMA oversees the medical marijuana application process, license issuance, and compliance monitoring.
Medical Marijuana Licensing and Regulations
When someone applies for a medical marijuana license from the OMMA, that privilege to use cannabis for therapeutic purposes is only valid in the state. As a result, patients cannot legally transport any marijuana across Oklahoma’s borders. Even with a valid license, transporting this drug across state lines could lead to federal drug charges. Keep in mind that marijuana use is still considered a crime by federal law enforcement agencies.
Oklahoma is home to numerous tribal lands. While medical marijuana is legal in the state, usage is prohibited on federal properties and tribal trust lands. Anyone who wishes to use medical cannabis will want to be aware of these restrictions.
License Eligibility Criteria
Anyone who wants to receive a medical marijuana license must meet specific eligibility criteria. You must be at least 18 years old, an Oklahoma resident, and provide proof of identity. In all cases, you will need to have a qualifying medical condition, such as:
- Chronic pain
- Cancer
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
Additionally, patients need to have medical proof of their medical condition. A licensed doctor within the state must provide a statement stating the person’s condition. Also, they need to support the use of medical marijuana for the individual’s treatment.
Once you have all of that, you can apply through the OMMA portal. The application costs $129. After you have been approved, you should receive your license within 14 days of submitting the application.
Once you have a license, you can only purchase medical marijuana at licensed and registered dispensaries throughout the state. Before you can enter the sales floor, you will need to show an I.D. and your medical marijuana license.
Possession Limits
With a medical marijuana license, there are a few possession restrictions. For example, patients can only have up to 8 ounces of flower and 1 ounce of concentrated cannabis. Along with that, there are cultivation limits as well. Currently, license holders can only have six mature and six immature plants at home.
Learn More About Medical Marijuana Limits in Oklahoma
Whether you’re a patient, a caregiver, or curious about the topic, understanding medical marijuana in Oklahoma is important. The Sooner State has come a long way in granting residents access to medical cannabis. By knowing your rights, you can potentially have legal issues in the future.
If you have questions about medical marijuana or the legalities of the cannabis industry, feel free to contact Brune Law Firm. You can schedule a consultation by calling (918) 238-7580 to set up an appointment with our legal team.