A new law in Oklahoma requires drivers to keep medical marijuana products sealed and out of reach while operating a vehicle. This legislation, which took effect recently, aims to prevent the consumption of marijuana in vehicles and imposes penalties for violations.
Under the new rules, unsealed medical marijuana products cannot be transported in the front seat of a vehicle. Passengers are also prohibited from consuming these products while the vehicle is in motion. The bill’s author, Senator Darrell Weaver (R-Moore), emphasized that it places the responsibility on drivers to ensure compliance.
“The way the bill is written is that really, it’s the driver’s responsibility,” Weaver stated.
The Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office has noted the challenges in enforcing this law. According to Aaron Brilbeck from the Sheriff’s Office, many individuals present their driver’s license along with their medical marijuana card as if it provides immunity from legal consequences. “This sends a clear message that you can’t have anybody smoking in your vehicle,” he said.
With the new law in place, drivers must keep their medical marijuana products either in the back seat or the trunk of the vehicle. Weaver reiterated the law’s intent, saying, “What this is about is just being reasonable, and we don’t want impaired drivers on the road.”
In addition to the potential fines for violations, offenders will incur a further charge of $250 which contributes to the Oklahoma Trauma Care Assistance Revolving Fund. This fee is aimed at enhancing trauma care services within the state, reflecting the law’s broader public safety goals.
Brilbeck offered a crucial reminder for those purchasing medical marijuana: “The package that you purchased it in is the package that it needs to remain, and that package needs to be sealed.” This aspect of the law underscores the importance of responsible marijuana use among medical patients, aligning with efforts to maintain road safety.
As the state navigates these new regulations, both law enforcement and lawmakers emphasize the significance of adhering to these guidelines to ensure the safety of all road users in Oklahoma.
