The latest in Medical Marijuana in Oklahoma

by Jason Elbert

Medical marijuana has been legalized in Oklahoma since 2018, and since then, it has been a subject of much discussion and research. As of the latest updates, the state of Oklahoma has seen a significant increase in medical marijuana patients, cultivators, dispensaries, and revenue generated from the industry. Here are the latest developments in medical marijuana news in Oklahoma.

Growing Demand for Medical Marijuana in Oklahoma:

According to the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA), the state has over 370,000 active medical marijuana patients as of February 2023, which is a 30% increase from the previous year. This increasing demand has led to the opening of more dispensaries and cultivation facilities across the state to meet the needs of patients.

Revenue Generated by Medical Marijuana Industry:

The medical marijuana industry has also been generating substantial revenue for the state of Oklahoma. According to a report by the OMMA, the industry generated over $1 billion in sales in 2021 alone. This revenue has provided much-needed funding for public schools, health care, and other essential services.

Changes to Medical Marijuana Laws:

In recent months, Oklahoma has also seen some changes to its medical marijuana laws. In December 2021, Governor Kevin Stitt signed a bill that allowed medical marijuana dispensaries to deliver products directly to patients. This change was seen as a positive step for patients who may not be able to physically visit dispensaries due to mobility issues, illness, or other reasons.

Additionally, the Oklahoma State Legislature recently introduced a bill that would allow medical marijuana patients to use their medicine in public places, such as hotels and restaurants. If passed, this would be a significant change to the state's current laws, which prohibit the use of medical marijuana in public places.

Medical Marijuana Research:

As the medical marijuana industry continues to grow in Oklahoma, so does research into its potential health benefits. The University of Oklahoma's Health Sciences Center has been conducting research on the effects of medical marijuana on chronic pain, opioid addiction, and other conditions. This research could provide valuable information for doctors and patients alike, helping them make more informed decisions about the use of medical marijuana as a treatment option.

In conclusion, the medical marijuana industry in Oklahoma continues to grow and evolve, providing significant benefits for patients, the state, and the industry as a whole. With ongoing research and changes to laws and regulations, the future looks bright for the medical marijuana industry in Oklahoma.