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Kentucky Hemp and Cannabis Legislation Tracker

Kentucky State Flag

Kentucky Hemp and Cannabis Legislation Tracker

Overview

Kentucky has a complex history with hemp and cannabis legislation. From being one of the nation's leading hemp producers before prohibition to the modern resurgence of hemp following the 2018 Farm Bill, this tracker provides comprehensive information on Kentucky's evolving hemp and cannabis laws, regulations, and resources.

Legislative Timeline

1775-1900

Hemp was a major crop in Kentucky, essential for rope, canvas, and other materials.

1937

The Marihuana Tax Act effectively banned hemp and cannabis production nationwide.

2013

Kentucky passed Senate Bill 50, creating a framework for industrial hemp research pilot programs.

2014

Federal Farm Bill allowed states to implement hemp research pilot programs.

2018

The 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized hemp production, defining hemp as cannabis with less than 0.3% THC.

2020

Kentucky submitted a hemp production plan to the USDA for approval under the 2018 Farm Bill guidelines.

2022

House Bill 136 to legalize medical cannabis passed the House but stalled in the Senate.

2023

Senate Bill 47 was signed into law, legalizing medical cannabis for specific conditions while prohibiting smoking.

2024

Ongoing implementation of medical cannabis program with expected launch in 2025.

Current Legal Status of Cannabinoids in Kentucky

The legal status of different cannabinoids varies in Kentucky based on state and federal regulations. This infographic shows the current status of major cannabinoids:

CBD

Legal

From hemp with <0.3% THC

Delta-9 THC

Illegal

For recreational use; medical use allowed for specific conditions

Delta-8 THC

Restricted

Legal gray area

CBG

Legal

From hemp with <0.3% THC

CBN

Legal

From hemp with <0.3% THC

HHC

Restricted

Legal gray area

THCV

Restricted

Legal status unclear

CBC

Legal

From hemp with <0.3% THC

Legal Restricted/Gray Area Illegal

Key Legislation

Senate Bill 50 (2013)

Established a framework for hemp research in Kentucky.

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2018 Farm Bill

Federal legislation that legalized hemp production nationwide.

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Senate Bill 47 (2023)

Legalized medical cannabis for specific conditions in Kentucky.

Read More

House Bill 272 (2022)

Addressed delta-8 THC regulations in Kentucky.

Read More

Resources and References

State Resources

Kentucky Department of Agriculture - Hemp Program

Official state resource for hemp licensing, regulations, and guidance.

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Kentucky Medical Cannabis Program

Official portal for Kentucky's medical cannabis program.

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University of Kentucky Hemp Research

Academic research on hemp cultivation and applications.

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Kentucky Legislative Research Commission

Repository of all Kentucky legislation and bill tracking.

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Federal Resources

USDA Hemp Program

Federal guidelines and regulations for hemp production.

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FDA CBD Regulations

Information on federal CBD regulations and safety guidance.

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Industry Organizations

Kentucky Hemp Industries Association

Industry advocacy and networking for Kentucky hemp businesses.

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Kentucky Cannabis Company

One of Kentucky's leading hemp producers with educational resources.

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