 Cannabis activists in Oklahoma had worked hard to place a cannabis legalization measure on next month’s ballot, but faced too many obstacles to make it in time.
Oklahoma’s Governor has now officially called for a special election in March 2023 for voters to decide on the marijuana legalization initiative. On the one hand, this is a welcome development for advocates, as the court action could have meant that legalization wouldn’t have been decided until the next general election in November 2024 without a special election being called. That would have meant another two years of arrests of people for adult-use marijuana in the state. On the other hand, putting the initiative on a special off-year ballot raises some concerns about lower and potentially more conservative voter turnout compared to a general election—especially for 2024 when the presidency will be decided. Although, even though there is that concern, it’s worth noting that in the past, Oklahoma voters did show up to a June 2018 primary to approve a medical marijuana legalization measure, so it’s hoped they will do the same this May regarding recreational legalization. Michelle Tilley, campaign director for OSLM / Yes on 820, told Marijuana Moment, “We are grateful the voices of over 164,000 Oklahomans who signed the petition and want to vote on legalizing recreational marijuana for adults in Oklahoma have been heard,” and she added, “now we need to make sure they turn out to vote.” Comments are closed.
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