THC Battle in Texas as Oklahoma Eyes Recreational Marijuana

While Texas is currently locked in a battle over whether or not to ban THC across the state, one of its neighbors is going in the opposite direction. Once again, a state bordering Texas is getting closer to legalizing recreational cannabis.

Currently, all states bordering Texas have in some form legalized marijuana in 2025. Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma have legalized medical use, while New Mexico has legalized recreational use.

Oklahoma’s Push for Recreational Marijuana

Oklahoma is currently looking at the possibility of going recreational very soon. A petition has been filed and is now circulating signatures in the Sooner State.

If the petition gathers the required signatures, almost 173,000, then Oklahoma State Question 837 would be added to the ballot in the November 2026 election. Voters would then get to decide if recreational marijuana is something Oklahomans want in their state by amending their state constitution.

READ MORE: Texas Lawmakers Push Another THC Ban Bill In Special Session

The last attempt at getting recreational marijuana in Oklahoma failed in 2023. There were regulatory and enforcement concerns at the time that this new measure supposedly addresses. Advocates are optimistic that this will pass if enough signatures are gathered.

Texas Moves Closer Toward a THC Ban

In contrast, Texas lawmakers are continuing to fight for the ban of THC products in the state. Recently, Senate Bill 5 (SB 5) was sent to the House after being voted through the Senate despite calls from Governor Abbott for legislation that would regulate these products much like alcohol.

In the Texas House of Representatives, there is another bill that seeks to ban THC products across the state. House Bill 5 is a companion bill to SB 5 that would also result in a ban on everything except CBD and CBG products.

READ MORE: Texas Senate Advances THC Ban; State At A Major Crossroads

Texas has passed legislation to expand its medical marijuana program, the Texas Compassionate Use Program (TCUP). Still, advocates of these THC products say the program doesn't go far enough to get relief to people who need it.

The debate rages on in Texas over THC as everyone is waiting to see what will happen in the House. Meanwhile, Oklahoma is considering joining New Mexico, Colorado, and several other states where recreational use is legal.