Kentucky officially legalized medical cannabis on January 1, 2025, following the passage of Senate Bill 47 in 2023 and House Bill 829 in 2024. This legislation established the framework for patient access, business operations, and regulatory oversight. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or merely interested in the cannabis industry, here's a Q&A guide to help you navigate Kentucky's latest cannabis laws. 

What is Kentucky's medical cannabis program? 

Kentucky's medical cannabis program, administered by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) allows qualified patients to access cannabis for therapeutic use. The program includes provisions for patient registration, caregiver support, licensed dispensaries, and regulated product standards. A guide has been created by the CHFS to assist individuals who wish to apply for a medical cannabis card.  

Who qualifies for a medical cannabis card in Kentucky? 

To qualify for a Kentucky medical cannabis card, patients must: 

• Be diagnosed with a qualifying condition such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, epilepsy, chronic nausea, debilitating muscle spasms, or post-traumatic stress disorder. 

• Obtain a written certification from a licensed medical cannabis practitioner. The usual fee for this is $175. 

• Apply for your medical cannabis card through the Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program website. Your application will need to include your personal details, the written certification from a qualified physician, and a $25 application fee. Those who apply in 2025 will have their fee waived for 2026. 

Once your application is approved, you will receive a registry identification card and can begin purchasing medical cannabis. 

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Can minors access medical cannabis? 

Yes, minors in Kentucky can obtain medical cannabis by meeting some additional requirements: 

• A parent or legal guardian must serve as a designated caregiver. 

• The caregiver must be at least 21 years old and not have a disqualifying felony conviction.  

• The caregiver is responsible for obtaining the medical cannabis and assisting with its administration. 

What products are available under Kentucky's medical cannabis program? 

Patients can purchase edibles, oils, tinctures, wax, vape cartridges (21 and older only), and raw plant material that is properly labeled as “not for consumption by smoking". Smoking cannabis, even with a medical cannabis card, is prohibited under Kentucky’s Senate Bill 47. The legislation was crafted this way to protect public health standards, according to Kentucky lawmakers. 

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Are there any restrictions on cannabis use in Kentucky? 

There are several restrictions to take note of when purchasing and consuming medical cannabis in Kentucky: 

• Consumption is prohibited in public places and on school properties. 

• Patients must not divert cannabis to unauthorized individuals. Only the person possessing a medical cannabis card can consume the product they or their registered caregiver purchases. 

• Vaping products cannot be purchased by patients under 21 years of age. 

Can I be fired for consuming cannabis if I have a medical cannabis card? 

Yes. If your employer has a no-tolerance policy for cannabis use, you can be fired even with a valid medical cannabis card. Kentucky leaves it up to your employer as to whether they are willing to accept medical cannabis use. It is best to discuss it with them before consumption. The only legal protections offered by Kentucky relate to prosecution for possession/usage and for those subject to child custody issues or child welfare assessments. 

Can I use my Kentucky medical cannabis card in other states? 

Every state has its own laws regarding cannabis use. While some states do not recognize out-of-state cannabis cards, others can accommodate your purchase either through their medical dispensaries with your card or recreational use dispensaries without your card. However, you will need to be cognizant of that state’s laws for purchase, possession, and use before traveling. Also note that since cannabis has not been legalized at the federal level, it remains illegal to carry medical cannabis across state lines, regardless of the laws in any state being traveled through. 

Can I grow my own cannabis in Kentucky? 

No. Growing cannabis at home remains illegal in Kentucky, even with a valid medical cannabis card. All cannabis products must be purchased from a licensed medical cannabis dispensary in Kentucky.

Can I be pardoned for previous cannabis convictions? 

Maybe. Executive Order 2022-798, signed by Governor Andy Beshear, provides a mechanism for pardoning anyone charged with possession of cannabis under statute KRS 218A.1422 on or before January 1, 2023. Also, law enforcement is no longer allowed to arrest anyone who meets the requirements set forth in the order. 

When will medical cannabis dispensaries open in Kentucky? 

Dispensaries were allowed to open after January 1, 2025. Once the Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program is fully operational, patients will be able to purchase cannabis products from licensed medical cannabis businesses across the state. However, experts say the opening of medical cannabis dispensaries in Kentucky is still months away. A current issue is cultivators needing to build out their infrastructure to grow products that can be sold. 

Can dispensaries deliver cannabis to patients? 

Yes, dispensaries may offer delivery services to registered patients and designated caregivers. Additionally, drive-thru and curbside pickup options are available if approved by the program and in compliance with local regulations.  

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Who regulates cannabis businesses in Kentucky? 

The Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program oversees the following cannabis business operations: 

• Licensing of cultivators, processors, and dispensaries. 

• Establishing operational standards for product safety and labeling. 

• Conducting inspections to ensure compliance with regulations.  

How are dispensary licenses allocated in Kentucky? 

Licenses are distributed through a lottery system to ensure fairness. The first lottery was held on December 16, 2024, with subsequent lotteries for additional licenses.  

Are there still ongoing investigations into the medical cannabis program? 

Yes, the Kentucky State Auditor announced an investigation into the medical cannabis program following complaints about the lottery system used to allocate licenses. The probe will examine the application and licensing process managed by the Office of Medical Cannabis.  

Where can I find more information about Kentucky's medical cannabis program? 

This guide provides an overview of Kentucky's medical cannabis laws as of June 2025. For the most current information, please refer to the official Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program website or consult with a licensed medical professional. 

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