Why it matters: A new Oklahoma law imposes a $50,000 bond on cannabis growers to restore any environmental damage or property issues in the event a grower abandons their land or loses their license. The bill was introduced by two Republican lawmakers and is designed to combat abandoned properties from prior grow operations.
What they are saying: The measure imposes a minimum bond amount of $50,000 to restore farmland that has been affected by illegal grow operations leaving a large mess behind once they abandon the land, according to Sen. Darcy Jech. Growers operating large, indoor, greenhouse or outdoor cannabis grow facilities will be required to pay an additional $250 per acre on top of the $50,000 deposit.
The big picture: The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics has shut down over 800 illegal grow operations in the past two and a half years, prompting lawmakers to establish this rule to prevent abandoned land from negatively impacting communities.
What to watch: Cannabis growers may be forced to pay higher than $50,000 to meet reclamation requirements. The bill may encourage more cannabis growers to become legal and reduce abandoned land left by illegal grows.
My take: This bill is designed to encourage growers to take responsibility for their property or face the consequences by taking money from their deposit as a form of a security deposit. It promotes financial responsibility and acts as a deterrent for growers who are thinking of becoming illegal.
