The Latest Developments in Kentucky’s Medical Cannabis Program

In a significant step towards establishing a robust medical cannabis system, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has announced the results of the most recent medical cannabis dispensary license lottery. This second lottery, managed by the Kentucky Lottery Corporation, saw twelve applicants selected through a methodical random number generator process.

Governor’s Commitment to Patients

During the announcement, Gov. Beshear emphasized the importance of the program, stating, “Today’s drawing concludes the process for the medical cannabis business licenses lottery at this time. Team Kentucky remains focused on building this emerging industry the right way. Ultimately, this program is about the patients, and we are excited about building this program so that they have access at the soonest possible date.”

Regions and Applicants

The lottery resulted in two separate drawings for designated regions of Kentucky:

• Region 1: Kentuckiana – Covers Bullitt, Hardin, Henry, Jefferson, Meade, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer, and Trimble counties.
• Region 2: Bluegrass – Comprises Bourbon, Boyle, Bracken, Casey, Clark, Estill, Fayette, Garrard, Harrison, and Jackson counties.

Additionally, exclusive drawings were held for Fayette and Jefferson counties.

Selected Applicants

In Region 2, the following entities were selected:

• DNP-DH KY, LLC (Shepherdsville)
• PRISTINE VISTAS LLC (Shepherdsville)
• DJS KY LLC (Shelbyville)
• Pinnacle Path LLC (Shepherdsville)

Notably, there were no submitted applicants from Oldham County.

Timeline for Medical Cannabis Cards

Eligible residents of Kentucky will be able to apply for a medical cannabis card starting January 1, 2025. To obtain this card, Kentuckians must secure written certification from a qualified practitioner, along with necessary information detailed on the official website kymedcan.ky.gov.

It’s crucial for patients to understand that while physicians and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) can provide written certifications, they do not issue the medical cannabis cards themselves. Sam Flynn, Executive Director of the Kentucky Office of Medical Cannabis, clarified this process: “Rather, they write certifications into our electronic monitoring system so when a patient applies for a card—which allows purchase of medical cannabis—their written certification will populate and the patient can click on it to associate the certification with his or her card application.”

Once a patient submits their application, the Office of Medical Cannabis will review it and respond within 30 days. If approved, patients will receive a digital registry ID card, which can be stored on their personal devices. It is advisable that patients also print a copy of this card to keep handy while driving.

Access to Practitioners

Since December 1, eligible Kentuckians have been able to obtain written certifications from authorized practitioners for medical cannabis. The state has established a comprehensive directory that is updated in real time, allowing patients to find nearby authorized practitioners based on ZIP code, county, or specialty.

Looking Ahead

Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander reflected on the dedication put into this initiative, asserting: “Team Kentucky has put in a tremendous amount of work to ensure Kentuckians with qualifying conditions have access to medical cannabis as soon as possible. The beginning of the year will mark an important milestone, providing eligible Kentuckians with an additional option to support their health care needs.”

Mary Harville, President and CEO of the Kentucky Lottery, expressed pride in conducting the lottery, highlighting its integrity throughout the process. She stated, “Over the 35 years of its existence, the Lottery has been known for conducting drawings for a plethora of its draw-based games—first with machines and balls, and now, with state-of-the-art random number generators. These drawings are conducted with the highest level of integrity and are in accordance with industry-established procedures.”

Conclusion

The development of Kentucky’s medical cannabis program is a pivotal moment for the state, reinforcing its commitment to patient well-being and access to alternative medical treatments. As the state progresses towards the launch of dispensaries, residents can look forward to enhanced healthcare options in the near future.