Medical Marijuana in Oklahoma
In 2015, Governor Fallin signed House Bill 2154, commonly known as Katie and Cayman’s Law, into law which permitted physician recommendation of high-CBD cannabis oil to minors suffering from a severe epilepsy disorder. By 2016, House Bill 2835 was adopted, which expanded the list of qualifying conditions, as well as providing legal protections for patients regardless of age.
Question 788 – Medical Marijuana Legalization Initiative appeared on the June 2018 ballot, approved by 57% of voters. Under this law, registered patients could possess up to three (3) ounces of flower and one (1) ounce of concentrated medical marijuana, as well as the ability to cultivate mature and vegetative plants. By 2019, the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Program grew exponentially as there was no limit on the number of licenses granted – approximately 7,000 licenses had been issued by the end of the year. Furthermore, in March of 2019, House Bill 2612, commonly known as the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act or “Unit” Bill,” was signed into law by Governor Stitt. From employment drug testing laws to firearm ownership protections, this new law greatly expanded the medical marijuana program in Oklahoma.
In 2022, Governor Stitt signed HB 3208 into law, which placed a moratorium on the state accepting new applications for grower, processor, and dispensary licenses until August 26, 2022. Such moratorium was further extended until August 1, 2026, with the passage of HB 2095 in 2023.
Applications for Medical Marijuana Business Licenses
The Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (“OMMA”) is granted the responsibility to promulgate rules and regulations for medical marijuana business licensing in Oklahoma.
Below are the following six (6) types of licenses OMMA administers:
- Grower
- Processor
- Dispensary
- Transporter
- Waste Disposal Facility
- Laboratory
The baseline threshold to apply is: (1) a $2,500.00 application fee; (2) 75% ownership interest held up by an Oklahoma resident; (3) members, managers, and board members of the entity must all be Oklahoma residents; (4) background check of all owners and officers; and (5) not within 1,000 feet of a school. For more information about the medical marijuana business license application process click here: https://omma.ok.gov/businesses.
Currently, there is an open application process for Transporter, Waste Disposal Facility, and Laboratory licenses. However, the OMMA is not accepting applications for Grower, Processor, or Dispensary licenses until August 2026. If you are interested in acquiring an Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Business License, contact us to discuss your options as there are several additional requirements that we can discuss with you.
Last Updated: July 25th, 2023