Oklahoma Cannabis Legalization Campaign Begins Signature Gathering August 6, Sets Goal of 300,000 Signatures

Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action (ORCA), the group behind State Question 837, says the initiative will need 172,993 valid signatures by 5 p.m. on November 4 to qualify. However, the group is setting a higher internal goal of 300,000 signatures, arguing that it would all but guarantee ballot placement and avoid legal challenges. “If we hit that number, any challenge under any existing law is 99.99% likely to fail,” the group stated in a Facebook post made today. ORCA has outlined a three-pronged strategy to meet the goal: partnering with retail businesses, organizing grassroots volunteers, and hiring paid signature gatherers. “You don’t have to be a dispensary, just an ally in our freedom fight,” the post explains, encouraging participation from cannabis-friendly businesses willing to host signature drives. The campaign estimates that if 300 locations each collect 1,000 signatures, they’ll reach their goal.

SQ 837 would legalize marijuana for adults 21 and older, establish licensed sales, and enact strong consumer protections. These include safeguards for employment, housing, healthcare, driving privileges, and firearm ownership. The proposal also sets a 10% excise tax on recreational sales, with the revenue split between the state general fund (40%), counties (30%), and local municipalities (30%).

The campaign, which cleared its public comment period without legal challenge, is preparing for what could become the most ambitious marijuana reform effort in Oklahoma’s history. Volunteers, donors, and supporters are encouraged to get involved by visiting orca4ok.com.