Kentucky Lawmaker Proposes Putting Recreational Cannabis to a Vote
State Representative Nima Kulkarni has introduced a bill, House Bill 199, which would allow Kentucky voters to decide whether to legalize recreational cannabis for adults over 21. The bill would permit individuals to possess up to an ounce of cannabis and cultivate up to five plants for personal use.
Kulkarni has previously introduced similar legislation, citing the changing views on cannabis and the need for Kentucky’s laws to adapt. She emphasized the importance of fairness and the harm caused by the current prohibitive laws.
Robert Matheny, owner of Kentucky CBD Farmacy, a cannabis business established in 2018, expressed his support for the bill. He believes that policymakers have prioritized large, out-of-state operations over small, local businesses and Kentuckians, describing the current state of cannabis in Kentucky as “corrupt.” Matheny worked with Kulkarni on the legislation and hopes it will bring about positive change.
The bill faces opposition from some Kentucky Republicans, who have taken a more cautious approach to cannabis legalization. A spokesperson for the party stated that they have taken a responsible approach to medical marijuana, but that the decriminalization bill is likely to be unsuccessful.
Despite the challenges, Kulkarni and Matheny remain committed to advocating for the legislation and giving voters the opportunity to decide on recreational cannabis.
