Gov. Andy Beshear announces step toward business licensing for medical cannabis

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Thursday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced Kentucky is one step closer to medical cannabis access.

According to the governor’s office, Beshear signed House Bill 829, which is moving licensing for cannabis businesses by six months from Jan. 1, 2025 to July 2024.

This means cannabis businesses could begin licensing this summer.

Beshear says this is a move toward Kentuckians with qualifying conditions having medical marijuana even sooner.

New regulations have been established to meet the quicker timeline, according to the governor.

In addition, Beshear stated that, with a partnership with the Kentucky Lottery Corp., the state will issue medical cannabis business licenses using a lottery system. To learn more, visit kymedcan.ky.gov.