Oklahoma Law Enforcement Heads Oppose Proposal to Legalize Adult-Use Cannabis 

The heads of law enforcement organizations are speaking out in opposition of the Oklahoma ballot question that would legalize adult-use cannabis in the state.  

Todd Gibson, president of the Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police, told News 9 that the organization and more than 300 police chiefs oppose the proposal, arguing that, if passed, the measure would “tie the hands of police officers and prosecutors” by limiting the use of cannabis in a suspect’s system as evidence.

“Oklahomans have already resoundingly spoken out on this topic, and it creates serious public safety concerns, community concerns and concerns for our youth.” — Gibson to News 9 

Donnie Anderson, director of the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, told News 9 that the state’s medical cannabis program – considered among the most permissive in the nation – is already fueling illicit sales in the state.   

“From March 2024 to March 2025, Oklahoma produced over 87 million plants,” he told News 9. “Only 1.6 million pounds were sold legally. That leaves more than 85 million pounds unaccounted for.” 

Anderson added that the state has seen a 30% increase in cannabis use among 11- and 12-year-olds and a 56% increase among high school seniors since medical cannabis became legal in the state. 

In 2023, Oklahoma voters rejected a proposal to legalize adult-use cannabis by a 63%-38% margin. A campaign led by Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action began collecting signatures this month to put the issue to voters during the 2026 midterm elections.