Louisville Lawmaker Files Bill to Expand Medical Marijuana Access in Kentucky

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A new bill filed by a Louisville legislator could expand Kentucky’s medical marijuana program by adding more qualifying medical conditions and giving patients more flexibility in how they access and use marijuana. The proposal is designed to make it easier for patients who already qualify under the state’s program to get the treatment they need.

Kentucky’s medical marijuana program officially began in 2025, and dispensaries are now open statewide, but many patients and advocates believe it is still too limited. This new bill is meant to address some of those concerns.

What Is the New Bill?

Louisville Representative Al Gentry introduced House Bill 401 during the 2026 legislative session. The goal of the bill is to expand who qualifies for medical marijuana and give registered patients more flexibility in how they access and use their medicine.

Supporters say the bill reflects what doctors and patients have been asking for since the program was signed into law.

Expanding Qualifying Medical Conditions

One of the biggest changes in House Bill 401 is the expansion of qualifying medical conditions. When Kentucky first approved medical marijuana, some conditions that were discussed early on did not make it into the final law.

Currently, Kentucky’s medical marijuana program only allows patients with the following qualifying conditions to participate:

• Cancer

• Chronic or severe pain

• Epilepsy or other seizure disorders

• Multiple sclerosis

• Chronic nausea

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

This bill would allow additional conditions to qualify, helping more patients who experience other long-term medical issues that may respond well to medical marijuana.  

Lawmakers and health advisers have talked about adding conditions that didn’t make the final list in 2023, including examples like Parkinson’s disease, Crohn’s disease, sickle cell anemia, severe arthritis, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), fibromyalgia, neuropathies, HIV/AIDS, glaucoma, cachexia or wasting syndrome, muscular dystrophy, Huntington’s disease, hepatitis C, and terminal illnesses. These are conditions that were included in earlier recommendations when the program was being developed and that advocates say deserve inclusion to help patients manage chronic symptoms. 

If you aren’t sure whether you qualify for a medical marijuana card, we can help. You may qualify even if your main diagnosis isn’t on the official list; many patients have symptoms, side effects, or related conditions that could still count toward eligibility. Our team can walk you through the process, explain how qualifying conditions work, and help you find out whether a medical card might be right for you.

Allowing Home Grow for Registered Patients

House Bill 401 would also allow registered medical marijuana patients to grow a limited number of plants at home. Under the proposal, patients could grow up to three mature marijuana plants and three seedlings on private property.

This option could be especially helpful for patients who have trouble traveling to go to dispensaries, such as those with disabilities or who want more control over their medical marijuana supply.

Changes to How Medical Marijuana Can Be Used

The bill also proposes changes to how patients can legally use medical marijuana. It would allow smoking medical marijuana on private property, giving patients more options when choosing how to consume their medication.

Supporters say this gives patients the freedom to use marijuana in the way that works best for their medical needs.

Another Bill Focused on Worker Protections

In addition to House Bill 401, Representative Gentry introduced House Bill 403. This bill focuses on workplace protections and would prevent injured workers from losing benefits simply because they test positive for marijuana.

Because marijuana can remain in the body long after its effects wear off, supporters say this change is important for fairness and worker rights.

What This Means for Kentucky Patients

If House Bill 401 passes, Kentucky’s medical marijuana program could become more accessible and more useful for patients who need it. Expanding qualifying conditions, allowing limited home grow, and offering more flexibility in use could improve patient access statewide.

The bill is still moving through the legislative process, and changes may occur along the way. Patients, caregivers, and medical providers will be watching closely to see how lawmakers respond.

Either way, medical marijuana is already legal in Kentucky, and the program provides comprehensive access for patients who qualify. If you have a qualifying condition, getting your medical marijuana card now lets you visit dispensaries and take advantage of the products and options available today.

Staying Ready as the Program Evolves

As Kentucky’s medical marijuana laws continue to evolve, staying informed is key. Patients who qualify should make sure they understand current rules and get a medical marijuana card so they can legally access marijuana dispensaries as soon as possible.

Kentucky’s medical marijuana program is still new, and legislation like this shows that lawmakers are continuing to shape and refine how patients access care. Even as the program evolves, it already gives qualified patients safe and legal access to medical marijuana across the state.

Access Medical Marijuana in Kentucky Now!

Medical marijuana is finally here, Kentucky, so get your marijuana card now!

Schedule your appointment today to get your marijuana card and start accessing Kentucky dispensaries as they open across the state.

Don’t wait—schedule your appointment and start your journey toward relief. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on the program and dispensaries!

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Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

At Kentucky Marijuana Card, we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free. Our team is dedicated to helping you unlock the full benefits of Kentucky’s medical marijuana program while improving your overall quality of life.

Don’t wait to start feeling better. Call us at (833) 781-6360 or schedule your evaluation today, and take advantage of the many benefits a medical card has to offer!

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