Over the years, many states have made major changes to their cannabis laws. Oklahoma is no exception. Medical marijuana has been legal in Oklahoma since 2018, but there are still fines and consequences for recreational users. If you want to know the fines for cannabis in Oklahoma, let’s take an in-depth look at the potential penalties for these criminal offenses in the Sooner State.
What Are the Fines for Possession?
In the state of Oklahoma, possessing recreational marijuana is still a criminal offense. If you have any amount of cannabis, it can lead to a misdemeanor charge.
First-time offenders will face a maximum fine of $1,000. Along with that, an individual may also have to serve a one-year jail sentence. But as the amount increases, so do the penalties. For example, those who are in possession of over eight pounds of marijuana could face a $125,000 fine.
As you may already know, medical marijuana possession is legal in the Sooner State. However, patients must adhere to a few guidelines. If you have been stopped by law enforcement and are in possession of marijuana, you need to show your medical marijuana card. With that license, you are exempt from all criminal charges.
Selling Cannabis in Oklahoma
If you sell marijuana without a license without a license, that is another serious offense. In fact, you may face a felony charge. Illegal distribution is still an issue in Oklahoma. In these cases, the severity of the offense will depend on the quantity involved in the offense. Generally, offenders can receive sentences of:
- Two to 10 years of imprisonment
- Fines between $5,000 to $500,000
Anyone who is cultivating (growing) cannabis without a medical marijuana license can be subjected to fines as well. Currently, those maximum fines are up to $25,000.
Other Considerations
While the above are a few cannabis fines and penalties in the state, there are other factors to consider. For example, Oklahoma will increase the penalties if the marijuana-related activity took place in certain locations, such as:
- Schools: If the possession or distribution happened near the school, then the penalties can be serious. All schools are drug-free zones. Any violations within a specific distance from the school or educational institutions can lead to enhanced fines and stricter sentences.
- Playgrounds and parks: Like schools, if you engage in any cannabis-related crime near these spaces, it can also result in harsher consequences.
- Child-care facilities: Child-care centers are also considered a sensitive and protected space in Oklahoma. Once again, any offense committed within a certain distance from these facilities will lead to increased fines.
All the fines associated with the offense will double. So, if a typical offense required a $5,000 fine, it will increase to $10,000 due to the location of the crime. Plus, these drug-related crimes are considered felonies in the state.
Learn More About Cannabis Laws in Oklahoma
So, what are the fines for cannabis in Oklahoma? Well, it will depend on the type of offense, the amount of marijuana, and the location of the crime. If you want to learn more about the legality of medical marijuana or other cannabis usage in the state, please contact an experienced attorney.
At Brune Law Firm, we are ready to answer all your questions. Schedule a consultation with us today to discuss your situation. Contact us or call (918) 372-3021 to schedule a consultation.