Is Cannabis Legal in Kentucky, United States?
In the state of Kentucky, United States, cannabis remains illegal for recreational use. However, the state has made progress in legalizing certain forms of cannabis for medical use, specifically the non-psychoactive compound cannabidiol (CBD) for specific medical conditions. Despite growing public support for broader cannabis legalization, Kentucky’s state government has not yet enacted comprehensive cannabis reform laws.
What is the Public Opinion on Cannabis in Kentucky, United States?
Over the past few years, public opinion in Kentucky has shifted significantly towards supporting the legalization of cannabis. A 2020 poll conducted by the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky found that 90% of Kentuckians support legalizing cannabis for medical purposes, while 49% support legalizing it for recreational use. Despite the growing public support, the state legislature has not yet enacted comprehensive cannabis reform laws.
What Laws, Penalties, and Law Enforcement Exist in Kentucky Regarding Cannabis?
As of now, possession of any amount of cannabis in Kentucky is illegal and can result in various penalties, depending on the amount and whether it is a first-time or repeat offense. Penalties for possession of cannabis in Kentucky include:
- First-time possession of up to 8 ounces: misdemeanor, punishable by up to 45 days in jail and a fine of up to $250.
- Subsequent possession of up to 8 ounces: misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $500.
- Possession of more than 8 ounces: felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Selling or trafficking cannabis in Kentucky is also illegal and carries more severe penalties, with potential fines and prison sentences increasing based on the amount of cannabis involved.
What is Marijuana Called in Kentucky, United States?
In Kentucky, marijuana is often referred to by its scientific name, Cannabis sativa, as well as by various slang terms, such as weed, pot, or grass. Some people may also refer to marijuana by its street names, such as Mary Jane, ganja, or reefer.
What is the Legal Status of CBD in Kentucky, United States?
In 2014, Kentucky legalized the use of CBD derived from industrial hemp for specific medical conditions, including intractable epilepsy. Under Kentucky law, CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC and be derived from industrial hemp. The state has also established a licensing program for industrial hemp growers, processors, and handlers. The legal status of CBD in Kentucky has allowed the state to benefit from the growing CBD industry, with many local businesses offering CBD products for sale.
Is Medical Cannabis Use Allowed in Kentucky, United States?
Although Kentucky has legalized the use of CBD for specific medical conditions, the state has not yet established a comprehensive medical cannabis program. Legislation has been introduced in the state legislature to create a medical cannabis program, but as of now, no such program exists. This means that patients seeking access to medical cannabis in Kentucky are limited to CBD products with low THC levels.
Can I Grow Cannabis in Kentucky, United States?
Growing cannabis for personal use remains illegal in Kentucky. However, the state has established a licensing program for the cultivation of industrial hemp, which is a variety of Cannabis sativa with a THC content of 0.3% or less. To grow industrial hemp in Kentucky, individuals and businesses must obtain a license from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.
What are the Government Laws and Links Related to Cannabis in Kentucky, United States?
For more information on the laws and regulations related to cannabis in Kentucky, you can refer to the following resources:
- Kentucky Revised Statutes § 218A.1422: Possession of marijuana
- Kentucky Revised Statutes § 218A.1421: Trafficking in marijuana
- Kentucky Revised Statutes § 260.850: Industrial hemp research pilot program
- Kentucky Department of Agriculture Hemp Program