Oklahoma Leaders Express Concerns Over Medical Marijuana’s Impact
Oklahoma’s medical marijuana legalization has been met with criticism from state leaders and law enforcement agencies, who claim the drug’s impact on the state’s youth is alarming. According to Keith Brown, director of Texoma High Drug Trafficking Area, Oklahoma’s teen marijuana usage has skyrocketed since the 2018 vote, with the state now ranking third in the nation.
Before the legalization of medical marijuana, Oklahoma ranked 43rd in the country for teen marijuana usage. Brown attributes the drastic change to the ease of access to the drug, citing the state’s 2,387 dispensaries. This number is higher than many other states, including California, which has 1,244 dispensaries.
Mike Erwin, an Oklahoma medical marijuana advocate, acknowledges the drug’s medicinal value, citing his father-in-law’s successful use of cannabis products to manage his pain after an accident. However, Erwin also recognizes the importance of regulating the industry to prevent illegal activity.
Donnie Anderson, director of the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, warns that the illegal sale of marijuana is funding transnational organizations and governments that do not align with the United States’ interests, posing a national security threat.
As the debate surrounding medical marijuana continues, it appears that the drug will remain a part of Oklahoma’s landscape. With concerns about its impact on the state’s youth and the need for regulation, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold.
