The Road to Medical Cannabis in Kentucky: What to Expect in 2025
Starting January 1, 2025, Kentucky’s long-awaited medical cannabis program will officially launch, providing qualified patients access to cannabis as part of their treatment plans. While the law allows for a "30-day supply," many patients are left wondering: What does that mean in terms of actual weight or product quantity?
Let’s break down what we know so far and how Kentucky’s program might align with other states that have adopted similar models.
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Kentucky’s Medical Cannabis Guidelines
The Kentucky Department for Public Health is tasked with defining what constitutes a 30-day supply. While exact quantities haven’t been established yet, here’s what we do know:
1. Allowable Possession:
Qualified Patients: A 30-day supply of medical cannabis.
Designated Caregivers: Can purchase a 30-day supply for each patient they assist.
Visiting Patients: A 10-day supply with a valid medical card from another state.
2. Prohibited Consumption:
Smoking cannabis is not allowed.
Approved forms include edibles, oils, tinctures, vapes, and raw plant material labeled as "not for smoking."
Learning from Other States
Many states have implemented medical cannabis programs with the "30-day supply" model, defining it in terms of weight or THC content. Here are some examples:
Ohio:
8 ounces (226.8 grams) of plant material with THC under 23%.
5.3 ounces (150 grams) of plant material with THC above 23%.
Missouri:
4 ounces (113 grams) of dried, unprocessed cannabis flower.
Arkansas:
2.5 ounces (71 grams) of usable cannabis.
Maryland:
120 grams (4.23 ounces) of dried flower or 36 grams of THC in other forms.
Illinois:
2.5 ounces (71 grams) of cannabis flower, with equivalents calculated for concentrates and edibles.
What Kentucky Might Adopt
Based on trends in other states, Kentucky may define its 30-day supply in the following ways:
Raw Flower: Limits could range between 2.5–4 ounces, depending on THC potency.
Concentrates and Edibles: Equivalent amounts based on THC content, with higher THC products (like oils or extracts) potentially having stricter limits.
The approach will likely prioritize public safety while ensuring access to patients in need.
What Patients Should Do Now
1. Stay Informed:
Follow updates from the Kentucky Department for Public Health and the official Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program website.
2. Prepare Your Documentation:
Ensure you have the necessary medical records and certifications to qualify for the program.
3. Understand Your Needs:
Work with your healthcare provider to determine the form and quantity of medical cannabis that will best meet your treatment goals.
Final Thoughts
Kentucky’s medical cannabis program is a significant step forward for patients seeking alternative treatments. While we await specific weight and quantity guidelines for a 30-day supply, looking at other states provides a helpful benchmark. Kentucky is poised to balance accessibility and regulation, ensuring patients can safely benefit from this new program.
For updates and more insights into Kentucky’s medical cannabis journey, stay tuned to our blog!
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Have questions or insights about medical cannabis in Kentucky? Share them in the comments below!
