Kentucky Issues Initial Medical Cannabis Patient Identification Cards

LOS ANGELES- Kentucky commenced the distribution of its first medical cannabis patient identification cards. Governor Andy Beshear awarded the inaugural cards to Dr. Ryan Grell, an anesthesiologist and owner of the Kentucky Medical Marijuana Center, and Merissa Khumalo, a former educator at Rise STEM Academy for Girls.

As of that date, approximately 2,200 applications for medical cannabis cards had been approved. The state had received nearly 4,000 applications, with 66 denied due to technical issues or disqualifying felony offenses. Applicants facing technical denials have the opportunity to reapply.

The medical cannabis program in Kentucky officially launched on January 1, 2025. To qualify, patients must obtain certification from a registered physician for conditions such as cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chronic nausea, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Governor Beshear emphasized the importance of protecting the constitutional rights of medical cannabis patients, advocating for legislation to ensure that individuals do not have to choose between their Second Amendment rights and accessing prescribed medication.