Technically, marijuana is not fully legal in Kentucky. However, Governor Andy Beshear signed an executive order back in November marking the beginning of Kentucky’s medical marijuana program.This is certainly progress!
The executive order clarifies that people who are eligible will be able to buy, possess, and consume medical marijuana. This executive order was not a rash decision, as the Medical Cannabis Advisory Committee provided Governor Beshear with extensive data supporting the legalization of medical marijuana.
Here's the reasoning for the order, according to the governor: “Provide relief to Kentuckians and allow those suffering from chronic pain and other medical conditions to use medical cannabis.” Sounds like a great reason to us!
What Does This Mean?
The executive order will take effect starting on January 1st, 2023. It will grant a complete and conditional pardon to anyone who is accused of possessing marijuana IF these requirements are met:
The cannabis must be lawfully purchased, meaning it must be purchased in another state where it would be legal to do so.
The individual must produce a receipt for the purchase which proves the date, location, and time of purchase.
It must only be enough for one person. Possession CANNOT exceed eight ounces of marijuana.
A doctor’s note will be required. Your health care provider must show that you have been diagnosed with a qualifying condition.
Who Qualifies?
Here is a current list of the 21 conditions that would make a Kentucky resident eligible for medical marijuana:
Cancer
Amytrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig's disease
Epilepsy
Intractable Seizures
Parkinson's disease
Crohn's disease
Multiple Sclerosis
Sickle Cell Anemia
Severe and Chronic Pain
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Cachexia or Wasting Syndrome
Neuropathies
Severe Arthritis
Hepatitis C
Fibromyalgia
Intractable Pain
Muscular Dystrophy
Huntington's Disease
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
Glaucoma
A terminal illness
The Bottom Line
Technically, no marijuana is not legal in Kentucky, but thanks to Governor Beshear, state residents can go out-of-state to get their medicine and consume it in Kentucky. Just make sure you follow the four requirements and have a qualifying condition before doing so.
It is also important to read up on the executive order in its entirety so you can be aware of any possession or purchase limits to make sure you are doing everything legally and safely. This is a huge step in the right direction for Kentucky lawmakers.
If you want medical marijuana to come to Kentucky, click here to let your lawmakers know that they need to support your right to access safe, effective medical marijuana. Every message counts!
Cannabis is a natural, safe alternative medicine without the harsh side effects that come with many prescription drugs. If you think you could benefit from medical marijuana, speak your mind to your lawmakers so we can get you the relief you deserve!
After you’ve contacted your lawmakers, contact us!
Reserve an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate doctors, and we’ll book an appointment for you just as soon as Kentucky’s medical marijuana market is up and running. Why wait any longer than you have to for the relief you’ve been missing?
You’ll meet with your doctor virtually via a telemedicine appointment using your smartphone or computer. Together, you’ll discuss your condition and decide if medical marijuana is right for you. You’ll even save $25 off the cost of the appointment if you reserve your evaluation today!