Oklahoma Officials Say Curbside Medical Marijuana Pickup Allowed
Although Oklahoma medical marijuana dispensaries are prohibited from delivering during the new coronavirus pandemic, they can offer curbside pickup with limited contact, say state officials.
According to an Associated Press report, dispensaries are considered “essential” businesses, which are exempt from Gov. Kevin Stitt’s order that directs some businesses in counties with confirmed cases of people with COVID-19. The Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority said in a statement that state law doesn’t allow medical marijuana to be delivered.
“Due to the complexities related to its status as a controlled substance, there are numerous statutes that prohibit Medical Marijuana businesses from delivering to patients,” the statement says.
Terri Watkins, spokeswoman for the Medical Marijuana Authority, said the curbside pickup service is similar to restaurants that offer carry-out food only. Medical marijuana patients can park outside a dispensary and their products will be brought to them. The Oklahoma Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement Commission this week moved to allow liquor stores to make home deliveries until April 17.
The AP notes that as of Thursday, Oklahoma reported at least 248 cases of the new virus. The death toll has reached seven.
“For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, or death.”