New open container charges for medical marijuana are now in effect

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — A new law that took effect recently means Oklahoma drivers now need to keep medical marijuana products sealed and out of reach or potentially face an open container charge.

"The way the bill is written is that really, it's the driver's responsibility," said author of the bill, Senator Darrell Weaver (R-Moore).

The law prohibits unsealed medical marijuana products from being transported in the front seat of a vehicle and also says passengers can't consume marijuana products either.

"They hand us their driver's license and their medical marijuana card, like it's some kind of get out of jail free card," said Aaron Brilbeck with the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office. "So, this sends a clear message that you can't have anybody smoking in your vehicle."

Brilbeck and Sen. Weaver explained that under this new law, drivers are expected to keep products either in the back seat or the trunk of the vehicle.

"What this is about is just being reasonable, and we don't want impaired drivers on the road," Sen. Weaver said.

Brilbeck added a reminder to drivers after their next medical marijuana purchase.

"The package that you purchased it in is the package that it needs to remain, and that package needs to be sealed," said Brilbeck.

In addition to any fine imposed, there's an additional $250 trauma care fee that goes to Oklahoma's Trauma Care Assistance Revolving Fund.