Governor Andy Beshear announced two executive orders Tuesday relating to medical cannabis.
In an executive order, the Governor outlined conditions that Kentuckians with at least one of 21 medical conditions, which include cancer, multiple sclerosis, post-traumatic stress disorder, muscular dystrophy or a terminal illness, must meet to access medical cannabis beginning January 1, 2023. These conditions include:
Cannabis must be bought in the United States of America in a state where the purchase is legal and regulated. Kentuckians will need to keep their receipt.
The amount a person can purchase and possess at any one time must not exceed 8 ounces, which is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Kentucky.
Each Kentuckian must also have a certification from a licensed health care provider that shows the individual has been diagnosed with at least one of 21 medical conditions. A copy of the certification must be retained.
The Governor said guidance is being created for law enforcement to determine quickly and accurately who does and does not qualify.
He added that Tuesday’s actions are not a substitute for much-needed legislation to fully legalize medical cannabis.
Beshear said he will work with lawmakers this upcoming session to push for full legalization of medical cannabis once again, which would further provide relief for those suffering, fuel job growth and support Kentucky’s farmers.
The Governor also announced the state will regulate the sale of Delta 8. Delta 8 contains THC, but at a lower level than marijuana. It is not a controlled substance in Kentucky nor under federal law, and a court has ruled that it is legal in Kentucky.
Beshear said right now, there are no checks on how it is packaged and sold but a regulatory structure must be established to ensure that Delta 8 is sold and purchased safely in the commonwealth.
The executive orders come after Beshear formed the Team Kentucky Medical Cannabis Advisory Committee in June to travel the state and listen to Kentuckians’ views on the topic after the state legislature failed to pass legislation earlier this year.
On September 30, the Governor released the summary from the committee that proved Kentuckians agree that it is past time for the commonwealth to take action on legalizing medical cannabis.
Source: WBKO
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