Kentucky NORML Announces 2025 Legislative Agenda: “Fines Not Crimes,” Expanded Medical Access, and Expungement Reform

As Kentucky approaches the 2025 General Assembly, Kentucky NORML is proud to announce our focused legislative agenda, which aims to reshape cannabis policy in the Commonwealth for the benefit of all residents. This year, we’re working to bring Kentucky cannabis laws in line with the needs of our communities by advocating for policies that focus on social justice, public health, and responsible reform. Our priorities are clear: reduce punitive measures for minor offenses, broaden medical cannabis access, and support a fresh start for those affected by outdated cannabis policies.

Kentucky NORML’s 2025 Legislative Priorities

“Fines Not Crimes” Campaign: Moving Away from Criminalization

Our “Fines Not Crimes” campaign calls for all cannabis misdemeanor penalties to be reduced to a $25 fine. This shift to a civil penalty—rather than a criminal one—will help reduce the impact of minor cannabis offenses on Kentucky residents’ futures.

Why It Matters: Excessive penalties for minor cannabis infractions disproportionately affect lower-income individuals and communities of color. By replacing criminal penalties with a $25 fine, Kentucky NORML aims to remove the stigma and long-term consequences associated with minor offenses, helping residents avoid a criminal record for personal cannabis use.

Expanding Access to Medical Cannabis for Over 400,000 More Kentuckians

Kentucky’s current medical cannabis program is limited in scope, and we believe it can do more to serve our communities. We are advocating for an expansion of qualifying conditions to include the full 21 conditions listed in Governor Beshear’s Executive Order. By expanding eligibility, Kentucky’s medical cannabis program could provide relief to more than 400,000 additional patients.

Why It Matters: Patients in Kentucky with debilitating conditions deserve safe, legal access to alternative treatments. Expanding the medical cannabis program could offer life-changing benefits to veterans, elderly patients, and others suffering from chronic conditions. States with comprehensive medical cannabis programs have seen reduced dependency on opioids, highlighting the potential public health benefits for Kentuckians.

Automatic Expungement and Record Sealing: Second Chances for a Brighter Future

Thousands of Kentuckians carry the burden of a criminal record for past cannabis offenses. Kentucky NORML is advocating for automatic expungement and record sealing to ensure that individuals with cannabis-related convictions can rebuild their lives and access greater opportunities.

Why It Matters: A criminal record can be a barrier to employment, housing, and even educational opportunities. By supporting automatic expungement for cannabis offenses, we are committed to improving lives, strengthening communities, and fostering an equitable society where past cannabis convictions don’t limit an individual’s potential.

Upcoming Events Supporting Kentucky’s Medical Cannabis Program

To build community awareness and support the medical cannabis program, Kentucky NORML is hosting several events throughout early 2025:

Medical Patient Registration Clinics
Join us to register for Kentucky’s medical cannabis program at one of our upcoming clinics:

Paducah and Bowling Green: January 2025
London and Morehead: February 2025
The clinic aim to assist patients with registration, answer questions, and provide information on qualifying conditions. Recommending providers will be on site. New dispensaries in each area are invited to reach out for sponsorship/booth availability.

Lobby Day at the Capitol
Date: March 6, 2025
Kentucky NORML invites supporters to join us at the Capitol to meet with legislators and advocate for cannabis policy reform. This is a valuable opportunity for Kentuckians to directly engage with lawmakers and show their support for our legislative priorities.
2nd Annual Kentucky Cannabis Conference
Dates: March 7–8, 2025
Location: Capitol Plaza Hotel, Frankfort, KY
This two-day conference will bring together advocates, patients, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to discuss the future of cannabis in Kentucky. Attendees will have access to educational sessions, networking opportunities, and updates on cannabis legislation.

2nd Annual Southern Cannabis Arts and Music Fest
Details: April 19, 2025
Kentucky NORML’s 2nd annual Southern Cannabis Arts and Music Fest celebrates cannabis culture with a focus on the music, advocacy, education, and activism related to cannabis and brings the community together in support of our shared goals. More details to come!

Join Us in Our Mission for Fair and Effective Cannabis Policy

At Kentucky NORML, we believe that cannabis reform is key to a more just, healthy, and economically vibrant Kentucky. As we move forward with our 2025 legislative agenda, we encourage lawmakers, advocates, and citizens to join us in calling for a smarter, safer, and fairer cannabis landscape for the Commonwealth.

For more information on how you can support our work or participate in upcoming events, reach out to us at info@kynorml.org

Kentucky NORML’s 2025 Legislative Agenda