Medical Cannabis and University Guidance

Kentucky Senate Bill 47, signed into law March 31, 2023, established a regulated medical cannabis program that took effect January 1, 2025. The law permits eligible individuals with qualifying medical conditions to obtain and use approved cannabis products under specified circumstances.

For information about eligibility and the state program, visit the Kentucky Office of Medical Cannabis. The law is codified in Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 218B; the original legislation and legislative history are available in Senate Bill 47.

What the law means for Kentucky State University

Kentucky State University is committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and supportive learning and working environment. As a recipient of federal funding, the University must comply with applicable federal requirements, including the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act and the Drug-Free Workplace Act.

Kentucky's authorization of medical cannabis does not supersede applicable federal requirements or University policies. Federal law continues to regulate cannabis products, including certain medical cannabis products classified in Schedule III under a federal rule issued in April 2026.

Under the University's drug-free campus requirements, possession, use, and distribution of marijuana-containing products, including medical cannabis authorized under Kentucky law, are prohibited on University property and in University facilities.

This restriction applies to students, faculty, staff, and visitors, including individuals authorized to use medical cannabis under Kentucky law. University policies also govern conduct during University business and University-sponsored activities, as applicable.

Medical cannabis cardholder status alone does not establish a student conduct violation. Individuals remain responsible for observing University restrictions on possession, use, and distribution.

University policies and individual responsibilities

Students and employees should review the policies applicable to their status. The following resources explain University requirements and procedures:

The University recognizes that individuals may have legitimate medical needs. Students with questions about accommodations should contact the office responsible for accessibility services. Employees should contact Human Resources. Requests are evaluated in accordance with applicable law and University policy. This guidance does not change existing provisions concerning the appropriate use of FDA-approved prescription medications.

Questions and additional information

Students with questions about student conduct requirements may contact Community Standards at (502) 597-6204. Employees with questions about workplace requirements should contact the Office of Human Resources. Questions concerning interpretation of University legal requirements may be referred through the appropriate University office to the Office of General Counsel.

For more information on state law and patient requirements, consult the Kentucky Office of Medical Cannabis.