The upcoming 420 Day holiday might be a bummer for Kentuckians. But next year, state residents will at least be able to access marijuana to treat some medical conditions.
For some in the state, a marijuana dispensary on every corner is a dream, for others, a nightmare. While unavailable to the average recreational user, Kentucky is making strides toward legalized medical marijuana.
Here’s what we know about the regulations and how residents can apply for a medical marijuana card.
No. Weed is not currently legal in Kentucky for medical or recreational use, but medical marijuana will be available by the start of 2025.
According to the Kentucky General Assembly Cabinet for Health and Family Services, applicants who may qualify for medical marijuana in Kentucky must be a state resident (with a few exceptions), have no felony record, have a qualifying medical condition, and have visited a licensed practitioner and received a written certification to use medical cannabis.
Yes. Those with a valid out-of-state registry card and documentation of a qualifying medical condition would be able to possess, purchase, acquire and engage in the use of medical marijuana in the state without receiving a registry identification card from the cabinet.
These patients must be over 21 with no felony offenses and a residency in the state of less than 30 days.
Current conditions eligible for medical marijuana in Kentucky include:
Recommended conditions for the General Assembly to add, from the Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program, include:
The registry identification card application form is available on the Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program website. Applicants who believe they qualify should include:
Medical marijuana applications in Kentucky, for the initial application and renewal, are $25 for qualified patients, visiting qualified patients and caregivers. Application fees are nonrefundable and require a credit card or automated clearing house transfer.
Yes. Those under 18 can qualify for medical marijuana if the caregiver application, filed by the parent or legal guardian for health care decisions, is approved for the patient.
No. Those with a prior felony conviction aren’t eligible for medical marijuana in Kentucky.
According to the Kentucky General Assembly, the cabinet will acknowledge receiving a first-time or renewal application within 15 days of the receipt, and approve or deny it within 30 days of receiving a complete application.
A written notice will be sent, saying the application was approved or denied. If denied, reasoning will be included. If approved, qualifying patients will receive their identification card within 5 days of the approval. Those under 18 will be denied a card without a caregiver.
Those with medical marijuana cards will be able to purchase up to a 30-day supply. In-state qualified patients and designated caregivers can purchase up to 30 days of the product in a 25-day window. Visiting qualified patients can only purchase up to 10 days of product in an eight-day period.
A 10-day supply includes up to 37.5 grams of raw plant material, 9.5 grams of concentrates and 1,300 milligrams of THC-infused products. A 30-day supply includes up to 112 grams of raw plant material, 28 grams of concentrates and 3,900 milligrams of THC-infused products.
Medical cannabis by combustion, such as smoking, is prohibited for all patients. For those under 21, vaporizing products aren’t allowed.
In Kentucky, a medical marijuana license will be valid for one year, unless indicated by the practitioner to end access sooner. Patients can apply for renewal once the card expires.
Applications can be submitted beginning Jan. 1, 2025.