Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority names new director

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — Oklahoma native Travis Kirkpatrick was named the new director of the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority.

Kirkpatrick has served as interim director for the last 90 days.

Health Commissioner Gary Cox said he made the decision based on Kirkpatrick’s leadership at the authority over the last few months:

"During his three months, Kirkpatrick has reopened the call center, which is now handling approximately 300 calls a day, hired a compliance manager to ensure the dispensaries across the state are in compliance with state laws, and worked to open the lines of communication with the business community and the patients.” said Cox.

Kirkpatrick praised the staff for their passion and dedication saying, “that is something that drives me every day as I seek to innovate and lead us toward the goals we have been provided by the Oklahoma State Department of Health leadership and the Governor."

He continued:

"My goal is to continue to work with the patients, dispensary owners and growers as this authority meets the guidelines set out by the voters and by the Legislature.” said Kirkpatrick.

The Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority was created by a vote of the people, July 26, 2018.