Last Thursday, Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt signed a bill into law that formalizes and expands the state's medical marijuana program, further nullifying federal cannabis prohibition in effect.

Last summer, Oklahoma voters approved a measure legalizing medical marijuana in the state. A coalition of three Republicans introduced House Bill 2612 (HB2612) on Feb. 4 to create a regulatory structure and establish important patient protections for the state medicinal cannabis program.

The Oklahoma House passed HB2612 by a 93-5 vote. The Senate approved the measure 43-5. With Gov. Stitt's signature, the bill will take effect 90 days after the legislature adjourns.

The new law creates the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority and establishes a registry for qualified patients and their caregivers. It also creates a revolving fund to handle fees, taxes and fines related to the medical marijuana program.