Is Marijuana Legal in Kentucky?
Famous for its bluegrass, Kentucky is known for being one of the strictest states when it comes to the use and possession of cannabis statewide. From lawmakers stalling to pastors resisting, Kentucky residents have seen it all in the quest for marijuana legalization in the state. Kentucky is one of the states that’s yet to legalize any form of cannabis within its jurisdiction. Here are all the facts you need to be aware of regarding marijuana legalization in Kentucky.
Is weed legal in Kentucky?
No, adult use of weed for recreational purposes is wholly illegal in Kentucky.
When will weed be legal in Kentucky?
There’s currently no timeframe for when recreational use of cannabis will be permitted in Kentucky.
Are edibles legal in Kentucky?
No, edibles are illegal in Kentucky.
Is medical marijuana legal in Kentucky?
Except for CBD Oil with less than 0.3%, the use of marijuana for medical purposes is illegal in the state. The state does not have a medical marijuana program and the CBD oil exemption is in line with Federal requirements.
How to get medical marijuana in Kentucky
Residents of Kentucky can purchase CBD oil from a wide range of sellers including specialty stores and other retail outlets.
Can I go to a dispensary without a card in Kentucky?
No, there are no dispensaries in Kentucky since the state does not currently have a medical marijuana program.
How long does it take to get your medical card in Kentucky?
Kentucky does not have a medical marijuana program or MMJ cards.
Does Kentucky accept out-of-state MMJ cards?
There are no medical marijuana cards in Kentucky so the state has no reciprocity arrangements.
Marijuana bills/laws in Kentucky & key questions
Kentucky has a long and rough history with marijuana. However,
How much marijuana can I have in Kentucky? (in oz)
Possession of any amount of marijuana is illegal in Kentucky.
Is Marijuana decriminalized in Kentucky?
No, marijuana has not been decriminalized in Kentucky. A lot hasn’t changed since cannabis was initially banned in the 1930s. Before then, Kentucky was the biggest hemp producer in the United States. Its production history dates back to the 1770s when Kentucky began hemp production. It also grew to become the primary source of hemp in the country. However, the anti-cannabis sentiments that blew through the 1930s ultimately led to its ban.
Things remained the same on the marijuana landscape in Kentucky until when the 2014 Farm Bill was passed. The 2014 Farm Bill essentially legalized the cultivation of hemp. In addition, Governor Steve Beshear signed SB 124 into law in 2014. This law permitted the use of CBD products as long as you have a Doctor’s written permission.
Moving on, lawmakers in Kentucky passed HB 333 to legalize the purchase, possession, consumption, and retail sale of hemp and hemp-derived CBD products with 0.3% THC or less. Over the past few years, many lawmakers have attempted to raise bills to put an end to cannabis prohibition in Kentucky without any success. The most notable in recent times is perhaps House Bill 136 which was passed by the Kentucky lower house.
House Bill 136 has been stalled by the state’s Senate and may likely not get a vote until next year. If passed, this bill will legalize medical marijuana across Kentucky.
Is there a fine or penalty for marijuana possession in Kentucky?
Yes. Possession of cannabis in Kentucky is punishable by up to 45 days in jail and a $250 fine.
How many cannabis plants per household in Kentucky?
Cultivation of cannabis plants at home is illegal.
Kentucky dispensaries regulations
The state neither has a medical marijuana program nor dispensaries.
Kentucky growers regulations
Although individuals are prohibited from growing cannabis in Kentucky, the state’s Department of Agriculture can license farmers, processors, and other businesses to grow, handle, transport, and process hemp with no more than 0.3% THC.
Closing thoughts
The journey towards legalizing cannabis in Kentucky may seem like a steep one but this might not be the case. Many advocates including lawmakers and lawyers are currently pushing the authorities to at least decriminalize marijuana statewide. Also, with state representatives finally able to muster support to pass pro-cannabis legislation, it’s only a matter of time before the same is replicated in the Senate.