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State Question 820: Oklahomans say “no” to legalizing adult use of cannabis

Cannabis leaf texture on the Oklahoma State Flag and Capitol building

TULSA — Nearly five years after Oklahomans overwhelmingly approved the legalization of cannabis for medicinal purposes, voters once again returned to the polls Tuesday to determine if universal adult use should become legal as well.

This time, the tally appears even more lopsided - but it was the “no” vote which prevailed.

Legalization of cannabis carries a number of political undertones, including aspects of criminal justice reform, states’ rights, personal freedoms, and public safety.

Proponents of 820 argued that the measure would provide accountability, help reduce crime, and restore justice for those who faced harsh criminal penalties for an activity that is increasingly tolerated, if not supported, by a majority of U.S. citizens.

However, opponents drew on the continued federal ban on cannabis, data which indicates legalization can lead to an increase in auto accidents, and longstanding attitudes about “drug use” to fight back against the measure.

Even many Oklahomans who support universal adult use expressed some doubts about the language in SQ 820, arguing that it left too much power to regulate the industry - and its consumers - in the hands of legislators.

In the end, Oklahomans rejected State Question 820, with more than sixty percent of voters saying “no” according to unofficial results available Tuesday.

Thus far, 39 states and the District of Columbia have legalized medical cannabis, 21 states (and D.C.) have legalized universal adult use.

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