Kentucky Cannabis News

Kentucky Cannabis Laws

Kentucky is one of only 17 states where recreational cannabis and medical cannabis are both illegal. Possession of up to 8 oz. of cannabis is a misdemeanor punishable by a maximum of 45 days in jail and a $250 fine.

However, non-psychoactive CBD oil is allowed. Kentucky’s Congressional delegation recently led the charge to legalize hemp cultivation, which became a reality after the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill.

Cannabis Reform and Legalization Efforts in Kentucky In January 2019, Kentucky lawmakers introduced a variety of cannabis-related legislation at the state level, including bills to legalize recreational cannabis, legalize medical cannabis, and decriminalize cannabis possession

Of the new bills, the one that currently has the most support is Kentucky House Bill 136, which would create a medical cannabis program in the state. The bill was introduced by a bipartisan group of legislators, but it’s not clear if it will receive a vote.

One of House Bill 136’s sponsors, Rep. Jason Nemes, said: “If we get a vote, the numbers will be above 60. A strong majority of Kentuckians, a strong majority of House members support medical marijuana.”

With the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, Kentucky is poised to become a worldwide leader in hemp production. Where Does Cannabis and Cannabis Policy Stand Now? The 2013 Kentucky Health Issues Poll found that 78% of people in the state support legalizing medical cannabis. Fun Fact about Kentucky and Cannabis: For much of the 19th and 20th centuries, a majority of the United States’ hemp was grown in Kentucky.