Oklahoma Senate Bill SB117

Oklahoma 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Medical marijuana; commercial grower and processing licenses; requiring certain applicants to furnish certain documents before operating. Effective date.

Impact

The legislation enhances the regulatory framework governing medical marijuana operations in Oklahoma by establishing clear requirements for license applicants. The bill grants the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority increased oversight responsibilities, including the ability to revoke licenses for non-compliance. Additionally, unauthorized sales to patients are prohibited, reinforcing a wholesale-only model that aligns with state objectives to regulate commercial medical marijuana activities more effectively.

Summary

Senate Bill 117, introduced by Senator Bergstrom, amends sections of the Oklahoma Statutes concerning medical marijuana, specifically focusing on the licensing process for commercial growers and processors. The bill mandates that applicants for medical marijuana grower licenses submit specific documentation and comply with various criteria related to age, residency, and ownership interests. The bill aims to streamline the application process while ensuring thorough review and compliance with state regulations.

Contention

A notable point of contention is the provision requiring applicants with felony convictions to disclose their status, which some advocate groups argue could disproportionately affect minority populations. The bill also empowers the Authority to create food safety standards for processing operations, a move that, while aimed at ensuring public safety, may face pushback from industry stakeholders concerned about the potential for increased regulatory burdens. Overall, the bill represents a significant step in the evolution of Oklahoma’s medical marijuana laws but raises questions about access and fairness in the licensing process.