News - KENTUCKY NORML

Kentucky NORML and Other Organizations to Push for Cannabis Policy Reform on Jan 3, 2023

12/31/2022

Members Of Kentucky Legislature Join Patients, Activists, And Business Leaders To Lobby Marijuana Decriminalization and a Medical Marijuana Program

Frankfort, KY - On January 3rd, Kentucky NORML, will be joined by multiple organizations, coming together at the start of the 2023 Kentucky General Assembly to show legislators the importance and need for cannabis policy reform in the Commonwealth. Organizations from across the political spectrum will join together to stand in solidarity to persuade legislators to make the right decision on cannabis policy reform this session.

“While Governor Beshear’s recent historic action is an important step toward cannabis justice in the Commonwealth, Kentuckians are ready for and deserve more,” said Matthew Bratcher, Executive Director. “Kentucky NORML is committed to working with legislators to advance the pragmatic and sensible cannabis policies supported by their constituents and our membership.”

CAPITOL Tunnel Exhibit and Meeting with GOVERNOR Andy Beshear

12/29/2022

It was a truly incredible day yesterday at the Kentucky Capitol as we had the opportunity to meet with Governor Andy Beshear to discuss the important topic of medical cannabis. We were honored to work with Kentucky Moms for Medical Cannabis, founded by Kristin Wilcox and Julie Cantwell, on creating a historic exhibit in the Capitol Tunnel, a passageway that connects the Annex Offices to the Capitol Building and is only accessible to employees or those being escorted.

Our Stance on Cannabis Policy Reform for Kentucky

12/26/2022

There is debate about which type of cannabis reform policy is most needed in Kentucky. Some people think decriminalization is the top priority, while others argue that the state should focus on medical cannabis for patients. Others are only concerned with adult use and a regulated market. All of these issues are important, but for vastly different reasons. At Kentucky NORML, we believe there is a statistically proven path to follow when introducing cannabis reform policies and legislation to a state.

There are two main components to cannabis policy reform. The first is a decriminalization policy alongside a medical cannabis program. The second is adult use for those over 21. As a consumer protection organization, we do support adult use, but only after achieving the first step of decriminalization and medical cannabis. Therefore, in 2023, we will focus solely on decriminalization and medical cannabis.

Sponsor a special project for #KYGA23

12/21/2022

12/21/2022

We are working on a special project for 2023 Kentucky General Assembly and we need your help making this project a reality.

Kentucky NORML will be printing a series of Informational 18"x24" posters to be displayed at the Capitol in various locations, We are not at liberty to divulge exactly where they will be placed until after session starts but rest assured that they will be extremely visible and effective. So we need YOU to a sponsor a poster or two!

Decriminalization Rally Jan 2023

12/13/2022

Kentucky NORML's mission is to move public opinion sufficiently to decriminalize the use of cannabis in Kentucky, along with a robust, accessible, and affordable medical cannabis program. We will continue further to fight for adult use and to serve as an advocate for consumers and patients to assure they have access to a higher quality of cannabis that is safely regulated, affordable and accessible.

Please join us Tuesday (1/3/23) at 11 A.M. CST for a Rally for the Decriminalization of Cannabis!

Come hear and amplify the voices of the organizations that support decriminalization.

We’ve come so far in advancing Kentucky's cannabis policy – let’s show up big and keep the momentum going!

Thanks for being a part of this,

Why is McConnell so opposed to cannabis reform?

12/7/2022

Mitch McConnell has a history of blocking cannabis reform, including the SAFE Banking Act, which would allow banks to serve the cannabis industry without fear of federal retribution. This raises the question: why is McConnell so opposed to cannabis reform

Take action: email your senator 2023

12/6/2022

In years past we’ve been overlooked despite overwhelming support and public opinion.

Will you help us ensure that cannabis reform has a place at the table in January by emailing your State Senator today?

Please enter your email in the form below.

What is Medical Cannabis?

12/6/2022

Medical cannabis, also known as medical marijuana, is a form of treatment that uses the cannabis plant or its active ingredients to help manage symptoms or treat certain conditions. Cannabis is a psychoactive drug that has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years.

Cannabis Policy Issues

12/2/2022

Decriminalization

Cannabis decriminalization is a policy that reduces or eliminates criminal penalties for possession and use. It is different from legalization, which removes criminal penalties and creates a regulated market for cannabis.

Medical Cannabis Program

The use of cannabis for medical purposes is a major cannabis policy issue. Many people believe cannabis has therapeutic value and can treat various medical conditions.

Adult-Use Market

Adult-use cannabis legalization refers to the legal sale and possession of cannabis products for recreational purposes, rather than for medicinal or therapeutic use. 15 states and the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis, and many other states are considering it.

Volunteers needed at the capitol for 2023 session

12/1/2022

12/01/2022

Help us by volunteering to help work the Cannabis advocacy table!

Meet fellow advocates, hand out information to Capitol visitors, etc.

How to write a letter to the editor

12/1/2022

Letters to the editor (LTEs) are short pieces (150-300 words) written by community members and published in newspapers and other publications. They give writers a platform to share their thoughts on important issues and are often more persuasive when they are personal. The editorial staff decides which LTEs to publish, but it is helpful to consider all members of the community as the audience.