Kentucky may become the next state to enact a medical marijuana program. Some lawmakers have recognized a need for an alternative pain relief option for certain residents suffering from chronic afflictions. Medical marijuana has been shown to alleviate symptoms and provide comfort for many patients. Taking a cue from surrounding states like Ohio, Kentucky lawmakers have drafted a medical marijuana bill they hope to turn into legislation.
If you are facing drug charges, contact our Cincinnati medical marijuana lawyers at Luftman, Heck & Associates. We can help you navigate complex drug laws and build a strong defense for your situation. Contact us today at (513) 338-1890 to schedule a free consultation.
An Overview of Kentucky’s Medical Marijuana Bill
As with other state’s programs, Kentucky will not permit patients to smoke marijuana. Instead, they may vape it or possess oils, tinctures, or edibles. Qualified patients will need to get a medical order from a doctor to legally purchase medical marijuana products. The bill also creates a new state enforcement agency that would oversee patient approvals, grow centers, and other aspects of the program.
There may be a section of the proposal that allows patients to grow a certain amount of marijuana. Originally, the bill included a provision that gave patients the option to own up to 12 mature plants and up to 12 seedlings in a facility that was both enclosed and locked, but many members of law enforcement and other officials were opposed to it. Lawmakers who drafted the bill will either reduce the number of plants and seedlings allowed or eliminate the “grow your own” section entirely.
Medical Problems Covered
Medical marijuana would be available to people with terminal illnesses or chronic conditions. The bill contains about 40 diseases that may find some relief through the use of medical marijuana including:
- Multiple sclerosis
- Cancer
- Glaucoma
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Parkinson’s
- Lupus
- Crohn’s disease
Home Delivery of Medical Marijuana
The bill would allow certain patients to receive a 90-day supply delivered to their home. These delivery companies are “compassion centers,” and they may sell, deliver, or transport medical marijuana and accompanying accessories.
Who Opposes the Bill?
While many lawmakers are in favor of a state-approved medical marijuana program, they feel the bill needs some tweaks before it can be deemed acceptable. The home grow and home delivery options are facing the most opposition, but the bill’s creators are not giving up. With a few rewrites, they hope to see the bill pass this year – and if it doesn’t, they are willing to try again next year.
Charged With a Drug Offense? Call A Cincinnati Medical Marijuana Lawyer
Almost 30 states have enacted laws regarding medical marijuana, but the laws are often confusing when it comes to who may possess it. If your misunderstanding of the regulations has landed you in legal trouble, we can help. Bradley J. Groene at Luftman, Heck & Associates will go over the details of your charges so we can help you prepare a defense and seek a favorable outcome.
Contact us today at (513) 338-1890 for a free legal consultation.
