Oklahoma legalization effort clears the first hurdle to the ballot box!

Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action (ORCA) has launched their signature drive to put Question 837, which would legalize cannabis for adults, on the ballot. If approved, legal cannabis access for adults 21 and older would be enshrined in the Oklahoma Constitution. The proposed language can be found here.

The first period for legal challenges has passed without issue. Beginning August 6, the campaign will have 90 days to collect 172,993 valid signatures. The campaign’s goal is to submit 300,000 signatures to make sure there is a buffer. Then, the Secretary of State will have 45 days to verify those signatures. 

Learn more about ORCA's campaign here!

Question 837 includes home cultivation of up to 12 plants. It would not negatively impact Oklahoma’s robust medical program. Among other items addressed by the initiative, the current 7% excise tax on medical cannabis would be abolished, in favor of a 10% excise tax on adult-use sales. State and local sales tax would still apply. Veterans would be able to receive their patient licenses without charge. 

If Question 837 qualifies, the governor could put the measure on the ballot during the June primary, the November 2026 general election, or he could call a special election.

Together, we have the opportunity to enshrine access to cannabis into Oklahoma’s state constitution. That will limit the ability of the legislature to “chip away” at the medical program and will legalize adult-use cannabis in perpetuity. Now is the time for all Sooners to come together and end prohibition once and for all!