Bill No. 2837 amends the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act to establish new credentialing requirements for employees of medical marijuana businesses. Starting January 1, 2024, employees must apply for and receive a credential from the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority, which may contract with third-party vendors to facilitate the credentialing process. The bill mandates that employees submit proof of completion of educational training as part of their credential application, and outlines that the training must be completed annually beginning January 1, 2026. The training will cover various topics, including state statutes, patient privacy, and safe handling of medical marijuana.

Additionally, the bill specifies that the Authority will conduct background checks and verify employee eligibility, while also providing a process for employees to appeal adverse determinations made by third-party vendors regarding their credential applications. The bill removes references to "suitability" in the credentialing process and clarifies the liability protections for third-party vendors acting in good faith. The effective date for the provisions of this act is set for November 1, 2025.