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Is marijuana legal in Kentucky? It’s difficult to keep up with marijuana laws across the USA. Some states have legalized marijuana, while others still have strict bans.
The Bluegrass State has had its fair share of tussles in legalizing cannabis. In 2023, the legislature passed a bill authorizing medical cannabis use. It only goes live in 2025. Recreational consumption is still prohibited.
It’s important to understand the guidelines in place to avoid penalties. Join us to discover the laws on the use, possession, and cultivation of weed in Kentucky.
History of cannabis legalization in Kentucky
In 2014, the governor approved a law that allowed the use of CBD products with a doctor’s recommendation. The legislation required patients to undergo clinical trials at the University of Kentucky for epilepsy. It didn’t offer provisions to produce or sell CBD legally.
The following year, House Bill 3 and Senate Bill 40 proposed a medical cannabis framework. The initiatives failed due to heavy opposition.
2017 brought better news for 420 enthusiasts. House Bill 333 allowed CBD products with less than 0.3% THC without a prescription.
On November 14, 2022, the governor signed an executive order permitting medical marijuana. It allows medicinal users to possess and consume marijuana.
Patients with a doctor’s note of approval can possess a maximum of eight ounces. It must be purchased from a 420-friendly state, as there are no licensed dispensaries in KY.
The General Assembly proposed House Bill 136 to legalize medical marijuana in 2019. It passed on February 20, 2020, with a vote of 65 to 30. It stalled in the Senate due to the COVID-19 outbreak, but was reintroduced in 2022.
The Senate passed Senate Bill 47 in 2023. It legalized cannabis in Kentucky for medical users. The bill only takes effect on January 1, 2025.
What are the marijuana laws in Kentucky?
There have been numerous changes to the law in the Bluegrass State over the years. Possessing marijuana for recreational consumption remains illegal. Medical marijuana is legal, with the full statute coming into effect in 2025.
The main difference between the governor’s executive order and SB 47 is the latter will permit the sale of medical cannabis within the state.
The medical marijuana Kentucky law in 2023 comes with some restrictions. Patients need a doctor’s approval for medical marijuana use. Those who have a qualifying condition typically get a recommendation from their physician within three days.
Patients with a valid medical marijuana certificate may possess up to eight ounces.
When SB 47 goes into effect in 2025, a few things will change. The law prohibits patients from smoking cannabis. Vaporization of unprocessed flower is legal. Edibles, tinctures, and capsules are also allowed.
There’s a 35% THC restriction on cannabis flower and a 70% limit on concentrated products. Edibles can’t have more than 10 mg of THC per serving.
Patients can possess 10 days’ worth of cannabis on their person. They can also have a 30 day supply of cannabis at home. Cultivating high CBD or high THC content seeds remains illegal.
Employers in Kentucky may restrict or prohibit cannabis use in the workplace.
Possession
Possession of less than eight ounces without a doctor’s certificate is a misdemeanor. It attracts 45 days in jail and a $250 fine.
Those with a physician’s approval can possess up to eight ounces of marijuana purchased from a 420-friendly state.
Selling and distributing marijuana is illegal. Gifting marijuana to a friend or family member is also considered distribution. These offenses come with several years’ jail time and hefty fines. The specifics depend on the number of plants and previous convictions.
The Kentucky marijuana legislation grants pardons for adults charged with possession if they satisfy the following criteria:
- The marijuana was legally purchased from a 420-friendly state.
- There’s proof of purchase with the location and date.
- The amount of marijuana is less than eight ounces
- There’s a valid doctor’s certificate for medical use.
It’s illegal to possess, manufacture, sell, or distribute marijuana-related products. Marketing and advertising marijuana is illegal. Violations call for a $500 fine.
Cultivation
It’s illegal to cultivate cannabis in Kentucky, including high CBD low THC seeds. Growing less than five cannabis plants is a Class A misdemeanor. It’s punishable by up to a year in prison and a $500 fine for first timers.
A repeat of the same offense calls for a Class D felony. You face up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Growing five or more marijuana plants is a Class D offense. Subsequent offenses are Class C felonies. They’re punishable by a fine of $10,000 and a prison term of 5–10 years.
Restrictions and limits
Is marijuana legal in KY? We’re afraid it’s not, except for medical purposes. The state has strict laws in place prohibiting recreational marijuana use. We take a closer look at the restrictions and limits.
How many grams of weed can I possess in Kentucky?
Possession of marijuana in Kentucky is illegal. An exception exists for users with a medical certificate. Under the governor’s executive order, possession of eight ounces or less is permitted for medical purposes. Possession of this amount otherwise is a misdemeanor.
Can I grow cannabis in Kentucky?
No, the cultivation of marijuana is illegal in Kentucky. Growing less than five plants is considered a misdemeanor. Higher numbers and repeat offenses are felonies.
An exception to the rule is having cannabis seeds in Kentucky as adult novelty items. Possessing cannabis seeds is legal. But you can’t germinate or cultivate them until the law changes.
Is recreational marijuana legal in Kentucky?
No, recreational marijuana use isn’t legal in Kentucky.
Where can I buy cannabis seeds legally in Kentucky?
It’s illegal to cultivate marijuana plants in Kentucky. The good news is you can still purchase marijuana seeds as adult novelty items.
Seed Supreme offers high-quality cannabis seeds to keep as souvenirs. Browse our selection to find a range of different strains. Place your order online and we’ll discreetly deliver your seeds to your doorstep.
Once Kentucky’s legislation changes, you can be the first to grow top-notch weed plants.
Key takeaways
Kentucky is a state with stringent marijuana laws. It’s illegal to possess, buy, use, or cultivate cannabis. Marijuana is only legal in Kentucky if you have a doctor’s letter.
Medical patients can possess up to eight ounces of marijuana. They can only buy medical products from licensed dispensaries in neighboring states. Anyone else found possessing marijuana is subject to charges.
The push for Kentucky to legalize marijuana continues. For now, you can purchase medical weed seeds while waiting for the law to change. Stay updated on the latest news with Seed Supreme.
