Why it matters: The new law in Oklahoma authorizes the state’s cannabis regulators to launch a medical marijuana dispensary secret shopper program. The program will send undercover secret shoppers into medical marijuana dispensaries to purchase products for lab testing by the regulatory agency. This law aims to protect consumers and ensure compliance with regulations in Oklahoma’s booming medical cannabis industry.
What they are saying: State Representative Josh West, one of the sponsors of the law, explained that the secret shopper program is intended to keep bad actors out of the industry and ensure consumer safety. He believes that having the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) conduct inspections similar to the state’s alcoholic beverage regulator will uphold the same standards for all businesses.
The big picture: The passage of several bills, including the secret shopper program, is part of the state’s efforts to regulate the rapidly growing medical cannabis industry in Oklahoma. The legalization of medical marijuana in the state in 2018 led to a surge in licensed cannabis businesses and the subsequent need for regulation and compliance enforcement.
What to watch: It will be important to monitor how the OMMA implements the secret shopper program and what impact it has on the medical marijuana industry in Oklahoma. The program will likely uncover violations of regulations and help regulate the industry’s growth.
My take: The introduction of a secret shopper program for medical marijuana dispensaries in Oklahoma is a proactive step in ensuring consumer safety and compliance with regulations. By conducting inspections and lab testing, regulators can identify bad actors and maintain industry standards. However, it will be crucial for the OMMA to carry out the program effectively and transparently to gain the trust of the industry and consumers.
