Oklahoma voters could take a stab at adult-use cannabis legalization next year

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A measure to put adult-use cannabis on the Oklahoma ballot is close to being ready

There has been a significant movement among marijuana activists in Oklahoma, as they have finalized language that will be included in initiatives to legalize adult-use marijuana in the state while reshaping the existing medical cannabis program that they hope to place on the ballot next year. Early last summer, Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action (ORCA) released draft versions of the proposals. Since then, the group has been steadily soliciting comments on how best to refine the measures. It appears that after taking that input into account, the group was able to come up with the final language earlier this week.

Under the recreational legalization measure, adults 21 and older are allowed to possess up to eight ounces of marijuana obtained through legal retailers. In addition, they are allowed to cultivate and produce up to a total of 12 plants at home for personal use if they so desire. It has been proposed that marijuana sales be taxed with a special 15% excise tax, which, according to the initiative, will be directed to different state programs. The funds would first cover implementation costs and the remainder would be used to support disabled people, water infrastructure, law enforcement training, substance abuse treatment, cannabis research and more.

The legalization of medical cannabis itself was approved by the voters of the Sooner State on the ballot three years ago. Unlike many other programs in other states, this one, in particular, does not require patients to be under a specific condition in order to qualify. In other words, doctors can recommend cannabis to anyone with a condition they deem appropriate. ORCA activists want to revamp the program and seek to have the Oklahoma State Cannabis Commission (OSCC) take over oversight of all areas of the medical marijuana system.