Medical marijuana; Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority; revolving fund; sales tax; apportionment; effective date; emergency.
Impact
The bill amends existing statutes related to the apportionment of sales tax revenue, specifically modifying 68 O.S. 2021, Section 1353. It mandates that before other general revenue apportionments, $10 million from medical marijuana sales tax is allocated to the new Fund each fiscal year. This shift indicates a significant state investment in local law enforcement's capabilities associated with medical marijuana, suggesting a recognition of increasing complexities and potential illegalities within the emerging marijuana market.
Summary
House Bill 2797 aims to establish the Medical Marijuana Law Local Government Enforcement Assistance Revolving Fund in Oklahoma. This fund is to be administered by the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority and is designed to aid county law enforcement agencies in investigating potential illegal activities related to medical marijuana cultivation, sales, and distribution. The funding would specifically derive from a portion of sales tax revenue generated by medical marijuana sales, ensuring a direct financial resource for local law enforcement efforts.
Contention
Despite its potential benefits, the bill could provoke debates around the relationship between medical marijuana regulation and local autonomy. Opponents may argue that funneling tax revenue in this manner could negatively impact the allocations for other essential community services, while proponents believe it fosters responsible cultivation and sale practices. The emergency clause suggests a sense of urgency in implementing the bill, underscoring the current lawmakers' commitment to addressing potential regulatory gaps swiftly.
Medical marijuana; modifying the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority Revolving Fund: limiting funding source; creating the Medical Marijuana Tax Fund. Effective date. Emergency.
Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department; modifying apportionment limit for certain fiscal years; requiring certain report to contain certain information and recommendation. Effective date.
State Board of Education; requiring certain determination; providing procedure; providing limitation; and removing certain apportionments. Effective date. Emergency.
Medical marijuana; modifying application method for certain entities; modifying various action duties and functions of the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority. Effective date.
Medical marijuana; authorizing Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority to review applications and provide notice of approval or rejection to applicant. Emergency.