Beyond Farming: Why Oklahoma's Plant Pest Laws Now Apply to the Cannabis Industry

Understanding Oklahoma’s Plant Regulation Framework for Everyone

Hello, I’m OKC business attorney Dillan Savage with Wirth Law Office, and I primarily practice in the Oklahoma City, Oklahoma area. Today, we’re going to discuss the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture’s authority over plants, pests, and diseases. Our focus will be on their power over plants, with some attention to how that connects to pests and plant-related diseases.

Historically, the individuals most impacted by these laws were farmers or those selling and transporting plants into Oklahoma for agricultural business. However, with the growth of the marijuana industry in Oklahoma, more everyday individuals—such as those starting grow operations or cannabis-related businesses—are having to learn and comply with these agricultural regulations.

Authority and Powers of the Department

The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture holds significant authority to protect plant life and control the spread of pests and diseases within the state. Specifically, the Department can:

- Quarantine plants to prevent the spread of disease or infestation,
- Restrict or condition the importation of plants into Oklahoma,
- Demand testing for both plants and pests,
- Stop the movement of plants within the state during investigations or disease outbreaks,
- Determine the exact location of plants, pests, or outbreaks to control the issue.

In essence, when it comes to the movement, sale, testing, or quarantine of plants and pests, the Department has comprehensive control. These powers exist to protect public health, the state’s agriculture industry, and to prevent the spread of invasive species and plant diseases.

Stay Informed and Compliant

If you found this video helpful or believe it could help someone else, please visit theoklahomacityattorney.com. I’m Oklahoma City attorney Dillan Savage with Wirth Law office, and thank you for watching.