Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt Vetoes Legislation Restricting Medical Cannabis Access

OKLAHOMA — In a recent development, Republican Governor Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma has vetoed Senate Bill 437, a piece of legislation that aimed to impose new rules limiting patients’ access to medical cannabis. The proposed changes included requirements such as physicians participating in a state registry, younger patients obtaining recommendations from multiple physicians, with one of them being their primary provider for at least one year, and the introduction of new regulations limiting the amount of THC in certain edible products.

The bill received strong support from the House, with 72 members voting in favor, while senators also favored it by a vote of 36 to 8. However, Governor Stitt did not specify which provisions of the bill he opposed. It is worth noting that the Governor had previously signed a different bill that placed a moratorium on the establishment of new medical cannabis dispensaries and/or providers.

Oklahoma voters had approved a statewide initiative in 2018, legalizing cannabis for medical purposes. With the legislative session for 2023 adjourned, lawmakers will not have the opportunity to override the Governor’s veto.

Governor Stitt’s veto of Senate Bill 437 comes amidst ongoing discussions surrounding medical cannabis access and regulations in the state. The decision is likely to spark further debates among policymakers and stakeholders regarding the appropriate balance between ensuring patient access and implementing regulations to address public health and safety concerns related to medical cannabis use.