Marijuana Card with a Felony in Oklahoma?

For many Oklahoma residents, medical marijuana can be a lifeline for managing chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, or other health conditions. But for individuals with a felony record, there’s often confusion about whether they can legally access medical cannabis. Many people with felony convictions wonder if they can apply for and obtain a medical marijuana card in Oklahoma.

The good news is that Oklahoma has some of the most progressive medical marijuana laws in the country, and they are relatively forgiving when it comes to felony convictions. In this article, we’ll explore whether you can get a medical marijuana card with a felony in Oklahoma, the process involved, and any restrictions you may face.

Can You Get a Medical Marijuana Card with a Felony in Oklahoma?

Yes, you can obtain a medical marijuana card in Oklahoma even if you have a felony on your record. Oklahoma law does not explicitly prevent individuals with felony convictions from applying for and receiving a medical marijuana card. This makes the state relatively unique, as many other states with medical cannabis programs impose restrictions on individuals with prior criminal records.

However, there are some important nuances and guidelines to keep in mind, particularly if you are currently on probation or parole. Let’s break these down in more detail.

1. Felony Convictions and Medical Marijuana Eligibility

As per Oklahoma’s medical marijuana laws, having a felony conviction does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a medical marijuana card. The state’s medical marijuana program is designed to focus on the patient’s medical needs rather than their criminal past. This reflects Oklahoma’s relatively progressive stance toward medical cannabis, which is seen as a legitimate treatment for a variety of health conditions.

2. Probation, Parole, and Restrictions

If you are currently serving probation or parole, things can get a bit more complicated. While Oklahoma law allows individuals with prior felonies to receive a medical marijuana card, the terms of your probation or parole may impose restrictions on your ability to use cannabis.

For example, if your probation or parole terms prohibit drug use, this could include medical marijuana, even if you have a valid card. In such cases, it’s crucial to consult with your probation officer or legal counsel to understand your specific situation. Some probation terms may be modified to allow medical marijuana use, but this varies on a case-by-case basis.

How to Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card in Oklahoma with a Felony

If you have a felony on your record and want to apply for a medical marijuana card in Oklahoma, the process is the same as it is for individuals without a criminal history. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Before applying for a medical marijuana card, you must have a qualifying medical condition. Unlike many states, Oklahoma does not have a strict list of qualifying conditions. Instead, the decision is left to the discretion of a certified medical marijuana doctor, who will evaluate your health and decide whether medical cannabis is an appropriate treatment for you.

Common conditions that are approved for medical marijuana treatment in Oklahoma include:

• Anxiety
• Chronic pain
• PTSD
• Insomnia
• Cancer-related symptoms
• Severe nausea

If you suffer from any of these conditions or another condition that a doctor believes could benefit from cannabis, you are likely eligible to apply.

2. Obtain a Doctor’s Recommendation

The next step is to consult with a licensed medical marijuana doctor in Oklahoma. Services like Oklahoma Cannabis Card make this process simple and affordable. For just $129, you can complete an online consultation with a certified doctor who will evaluate your condition and provide a recommendation if you qualify.

Once the doctor approves your application, you will receive a recommendation that allows you to move on to the state application process.

3. Submit Your Application to the OMMA

With your doctor’s recommendation in hand, you’ll need to apply for your medical marijuana card through the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA). The state application fee is $100, but if you are on Medicaid (SoonerCare), Medicare, or receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may qualify for a reduced fee of $20.

The OMMA will review your application and, if approved, will issue your medical marijuana card within about 14 days. Once you have your card, you can legally purchase medical cannabis from any licensed dispensary in Oklahoma.

Additional Considerations for Felony Applicants

1. Firearm Restrictions

One area where individuals with felonies may still face restrictions is firearm ownership. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone using marijuana—whether medical or recreational—to own or purchase firearms, and this is especially true for individuals with felony convictions.

This creates a legal gray area, as Oklahoma allows medical marijuana patients to use cannabis, but federal law still prohibits marijuana use and gun ownership. If you have a felony conviction and are considering applying for a medical marijuana card, it’s important to understand that you may lose your right to own or purchase firearms under federal law.

2. Employment Considerations

While Oklahoma allows individuals with felonies to obtain a medical marijuana card, your employer may not be as accommodating. Oklahoma law does not require employers to accommodate medical marijuana use, and in some cases, individuals with felony records may face additional scrutiny from employers.

If you are applying for jobs or are currently employed, make sure to understand your employer’s policies regarding both medical marijuana use and background checks. Some employers, especially those in safety-sensitive industries, may have zero-tolerance policies for drug use, even if you have a valid medical marijuana card.

Renewing Your Medical Marijuana Card

Once you have your medical marijuana card, it is valid for two years. After that, you’ll need to renew it by undergoing another doctor consultation. Services like Oklahoma Cannabis Card offer renewals for $99, making it easy and affordable to continue accessing medical cannabis.

Just be sure to start the renewal process at least 30 days before your card’s expiration to avoid any lapse in your legal access to medical marijuana.

Conclusion: A Path Forward with Medical Marijuana

Having a felony on your record can complicate many aspects of life, but thankfully, in Oklahoma, it doesn’t have to stand in the way of accessing medical marijuana. The state’s laws are designed to be inclusive, recognizing that individuals with past convictions still deserve access to the medical treatments that can improve their quality of life.

If you’re dealing with a qualifying medical condition, don’t let your criminal history deter you from seeking the relief you need. With the right steps and guidance, you can successfully apply for and obtain a medical marijuana card, even with a felony on your record.

At Oklahoma Cannabis Card, we’re committed to helping all patients, regardless of their background, gain access to medical cannabis. For just $129, you can complete your doctor consultation online, and we offer renewals for $99 every two years. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you get the care you need.