Thousands of Oklahoma residents find relief for their health conditions through medical marijuana. Many medical marijuana cardholders may sometimes find themselves with extra medication and feel tempted to help friends or family members who also have medical cards.
The desire to share medical marijuana with others might seem reasonable, especially when both people hold valid cards. Yet sharing medical marijuana with others breaks Oklahoma law and creates serious legal risks.
Misconceptions about sharing medical marijuana
The instinct to help others in need is natural and admirable. However, there are misconceptions about the act which may put your kindness at legal risk. Here are some examples:
- Both people have valid cards: The law requires each patient to purchase their own medicine from licensed dispensaries, no matter their card status.
- Small amounts don’t matter: Any amount of shared medical marijuana may count as illegal distribution under state law.
- Family sharing is different: Oklahoma law makes no exceptions for sharing between family members with valid cards.
- Emergency situations: No legal exceptions exist for sharing the medication during emergencies.
Understanding why these common beliefs create dangerous situations can help you avoid trouble with the law.
You run the risk of felony charges, drug trafficking penalties and a canceled medical card if you engage in these actions.
How to protect your right to medical marijuana
Your medical marijuana card grants you specific rights while following the law. Understanding these guidelines can keep you out of legal trouble.
- Purchase only from licensed dispensaries
- Keep your medical marijuana card current
- Store products in their original packaging
- Transport marijuana only in your vehicle
- Never cross state lines with products
- Follow possession limit guidelines
Keeping in line with these rules can ensure that you maintain your access to medical marijuana in Oklahoma.
While the desire to help others access medical marijuana comes from a place of compassion, protecting yourself means following the law. You can best support others by directing them to legal channels for obtaining their own medical marijuana.
