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April 28, 2026
UPDATE: DEA Provides Application Instructions to Medical Marijuana Dispensaries
Please note this information applies only to dispensaries; OMMA will share updates for other commercial license types and patients as more guidance becomes available.
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — For Oklahoma-licensed medical marijuana dispensaries under new federal registration requirements, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has published instructions for submitting the required data in its application.
Dispensaries choosing not to participate may continue to operate in accordance with the existing regulatory framework in Oklahoma and may still be eligible for potential tax breaks. The DOJ's order indicates that the 280E tax burden is removed for state medical marijuana licensed businesses, regardless of whether they pursue a DEA license (CANNRA). Licensees should consult with tax counsel regarding the applicability of Section 280E to their specific circumstances. More details regarding eligibility for banking services and interstate commerce will be shared once available.
How to Participate:
The DEA instructions page includes online registration instructions ranging from business information, such as phone numbers and addresses, to information about suppliers. The online registration consists of seven sections: 1. Personal/Business Information; 2. Activity; 3. State License(s); 4. Liability Questions; 5. Compliance Information; 6. Payment; 7. Submission.
Beginning April 23, state-licensed dispensaries have 60 days to apply, with a review period of no more than six months. Those businesses can use existing state licensing credentials to apply and register with the DEA. Applicants will be able to operate lawfully under their state license during the DEA review time.
If a dispensary’s state license is revoked, suspended or expires, the same action will be applied to its DEA license.
Last week, Acting U.S Attorney General Todd Blanche issued a final order to reclassify state-licensed medical marijuana products from Schedule I, which is federally illegal, to Schedule III, a federal classification that recognizes and allows the use of medical marijuana.
“These requirements are an important step toward a more mature and standardized regulatory environment,” said OMMA Executive Director Adria Berry. “We’re encouraged by efforts that support compliance, transparency and the continued evolution of safe, well-regulated medical marijuana programs.”
The Cannabis Regulators Association (CANNRA) today issued an overview of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Final Order on marijuana rescheduling
Berry, who serves as President of CANNRA, said OMMA is working closely with CANNRA to monitor and assess these changes and how they will impact the industry in Oklahoma and nationwide.
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