Oklahoma Residents May Soon Vote on Legalizing Recreational Marijuana
A new initiative is underway to legalize the purchase of marijuana for individuals over the age of 21 in Oklahoma. The proposal, known as State Question 837, was filed by Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action, a group led by Jed Green, who was also instrumental in the state’s medical marijuana campaign in 2018.
Under the proposed constitutional amendment, individuals over 21 would be allowed to possess up to 12 marijuana plants, 72 ounces of topical and edible marijuana, and eight ounces of commercially sold marijuana. The proposal would also eliminate the excise tax on medical marijuana and replace it with a 10% excise tax on recreational sales.
The new proposal differs from a previous effort, State Question 820, which was rejected by voters in 2018. Green’s organization opposed that effort, citing concerns about the lack of a licensure system and adequate regulation. In contrast, State Question 837 would establish a new licensure system and propose a constitutional amendment, rather than a statutory measure.
To get the proposal on the ballot, supporters must gather nearly 173,000 signatures. The effort is being made as a separate bill, Senate Bill 1027, is circulating in the state legislature, which aims to regulate initiative petitions in the state. Green’s organization opposes the bill, but it is not expected to impact the effort to legalize recreational marijuana.
The proposed constitutional amendment is seen as a step towards expanding individual rights and freedoms, while also protecting the state’s medical marijuana program. If successful, it would mark a significant shift in Oklahoma’s drug laws and could have far-reaching implications for the state’s residents.
