Oklahoma Campaign to Place Marijuana Legalization Initiative to 2026 Vote Set to Begin Signature Drive on August 6

Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action (ORCA), the group behind State Question 837, made the announcement in a recent social media post, noting that they will have until 5 p.m. on November 4 to gather the necessary signatures. That gives the campaign exactly 90 days to collect the 172,993 valid signatures required to qualify the measure for the 2026 general election ballot. SQ 837 would legalize marijuana, including licensed sales, for individuals 21 and older and includes sweeping protections for legal cannabis users. These protections cover areas such as employment, healthcare, housing, driving privileges, and licensed firearm ownership. The measure would also impose a 10% excise tax on recreational sales, with revenues distributed to the state general fund (40%), counties (30%), and local municipalities (30%).

As previously reported by The Marijuana Herald, ORCA had anticipated a mid-August launch if the measure went unchallenged during the legally required public review period. No formal challenges were filed by the July 7 deadline, clearing the way for the campaign to move forward.

With the signature window now locked in, ORCA is encouraging supporters to get involved by signing up at orca4ok.com. Volunteers and donors will play a key role in what could become the state’s most expansive cannabis reform measure to date.