How OMMA’s Communication Delays Could Affect Your License

Navigating the complexities of Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) licensing has always required vigilance, but recent delays in OMMA communications may be setting businesses up for failure.

As of March 1, 2025, new timely renewal rules have come into full effect. Renewal applications must be submitted 60 days prior to expiration to be considered timely. To provide ample time for submission, renewals now open 120 days prior to expiration. However, OMMA is currently still sending "Renewal Open" email notices only 60 days prior to expiration, and in some cases, these notices arrive even after an application has already been submitted.

The screenshot above shows an email received notifying a licensee of their renewal opening 60 days before their expiration, 10 days after their application was submitted.

Further complicating matters, these emails make no mention of the 60-day timely submission requirement, leaving licensees vulnerable to missteps.

For example, one licensee received a renewal notice on March 17, 2025, just 60 days before their expiration date of May 16, 2025. Yet, they had already submitted their renewal on March 7, 2025. This misalignment creates confusion and potential compliance risks.

These communication gaps carry significant risks for cannabis businesses in Oklahoma. Failing to submit a renewal within the 60-day window could lead to license lapses and operational disruptions.

A lapsed license may halt a business’s ability to legally operate, affecting revenue, employee livelihoods and compliance with other regulatory requirements. This issue might not be isolated, as other businesses could be receiving similarly untimely notices, posing an industry-wide concern. Operating without a valid license—even unintentionally—could expose businesses to legal liability and regulatory scrutiny.

To mitigate these risks and ensure ongoing compliance, businesses should take proactive steps. First, it is crucial to proactively monitor expiration dates. Do not rely solely on OMMA notifications. Instead, track expiration dates internally and set reminders to start the renewal process at least 120 days before expiration. Submitting early is another essential step. Aim to submit your renewal as soon as the 120-day window opens to ensure you meet the 60-day timely submission requirement.

Additionally, review all OMMA communications for accuracy. If you receive a renewal notice, verify it against your license’s expiration and submission dates. It is equally important to document everything. Keep detailed records of all interactions with OMMA, including emails, submission confirmations and timelines, to safeguard against future disputes. If there is uncertainty about your renewal status or if you believe you've been impacted by OMMA’s delays, contact us at Gies Law Firm to review your situation.

Finally, stay informed by regularly checking OMMA’s website and following Gies Law Firm’s blog for updates on renewal processes and rule changes.

We aren’t here to assign specific blame or intent, but it is critical as rules and timelines shift to highlight the real risks posed by OMMA's delayed and unclear communications. Staying proactive, informed and prepared is your best defense against unnecessary lapses and disruptions. If you need assistance navigating these complexities, we’re here to help.

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