Kentucky medical marijuana advocates have been pushing for years to make the drug legal and accessible to those who need it. Finally, after a decade of attempts, a bill to legal and regulate medical marijuana in the state has passed out of a Senate committee. Senate Bill 47 was given a favorable report by the Senate Licensing, Occupations and Administrative Regulations Committee, which means it is one step closer to becoming law.
Supporters of the bill were pleased with the outcome and expressed hope for the future. “This is a major victory and a huge step forward for those who need medical cannabis to relieve their suffering,” said Senator Reggie Thomas, who sponsored the bill. “This is a major milestone in the effort to make medical marijuana available to those who need it.”
The bill would allow medical marijuana to be prescribed to individuals suffering from a number of medical conditions, including cancer, HIV/AIDS, and chronic pain. It would also create a system of Regulations and licensing for marijuana dispensaries.
The bill still needs to be passed by the full Senate, and then the House, before it can become law. If it does, Kentucky would become the 33rd state to legal medical marijuana.
Opponents of the bill expressed concern about the potential for abuse and misuse of the drug. They argued that the bill does not do enough to address the potential for addiction and abuse. “We need to make sure that this is done in a responsible manner and that it does not lead to increased drug abuse,” said Senator Jimmy Higdon, who voted against the bill.
The bill was amended to address some of these concerns. It now includes stricter Regulations on the sale and distribution of medical marijuana, as well as stricter penalties for those who violate the law.
Supporters of the bill argued that it would provide relief to those who need it, while still protecting public safety. “We are confident that this bill will provide relief to those who need it, while still protecting public safety,” said Senator Thomas.
The bill must still be passed by the full Senate and the House before it can become law. If it does, Kentucky would become the 33rd state in the nation to legal medical marijuana.
