FRANKFORT, Ky. (WKRN) — As of Wednesday, the Bluegrass State officially allows another sort of grass: medical marijuana. However, Tennesseans considering crossing state lines might have to think twice. Here’s a look at the ins and outs of Kentucky’s new law.
“Our program will begin accepting applications for medical cannabis cards from Kentucky patients on January 1st, 2025,” Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (D) said during a December update about the new program.
What’s allowed under Kentucky’s new medical marijuana law, SB 47? If you are over 18 with a doctor’s permission, you can buy medical cannabis in raw plant, edible, tincture, and — for those over 21 — vape form. If you’re under 18, you’ll need an adult caregiver.
“I’m pleased to announce that, as of today, many Kentuckians have already showed an incredible interest,” said Beshear. “Our goal from the outset is to ensure that everyone who qualifies has access. Our practitioner directory will ensure that Kentuckians can find a nurse or a doctor near them.”
However, Tennesseans shouldn’t get any ideas. The Volunteer State does not allow medical marijuana, and if you’re thinking about crossing state lines to get a Kentucky medical marijuana ID, that won’t work either. You have to be a resident of the Bluegrass State.
“I’ve been really proud of the work that’s gone in. We are going to have a highly-regulated system that is going to ensure that those that qualify are able to get the help that they need, but to prevent any abuses of the system at the same time,” Beshear said.
SB 47 does not allow felons convicted of certain crimes to take part. In addition, it prohibits Kentuckians from growing their own medical cannabis. Counties and cities are allowed to ban dispensaries, and a few did, including Allen County on Tennessee’s border.
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is warning Kentuckians that, at the federal level, marijuana is illegal. Furthermore, you cannot purchase a gun and also use cannabis, even if it’s medical.
“To mitigate these risks could be to just refrain from using marijuana. Some may feel like giving up their firearms is the best option for the time being, or just transferring ownership for a span of time while you’re a patient,” said Matthew Bratcher with Kentucky NORML.
Although the medical marijuana program technically starts Wednesday, Jan. 1, the first Kentucky dispensary is not expected to open its doors until well into 2025.
“It’s a long time coming, but I’m excited that we’re doing it,” Beshear said.
In Tennessee, both medical and recreational marijuana are illegal.
