Group calls for cannabis decriminalization

FRANKFORT, Ky. (WTVQ) — Members of the Kentucky Cannabis Freedom Coalition are calling on Governor Andy Beshear to sign an executive order to decriminalize cannabis here in the commonwealth.

“It is time to protect Kentucky citizens from the cruel and outdated laws that have restricted our economy and damaged the lives of our citizens for 87 years,” said executive order advocate Regina Carpenter.

One member shared why he is signing the petition asking the governor to sign an executive order, saying cannabis helps with his anxiety and PTSD.

Along with medical reasoning, the Kentucky Cannabis Freedom Coalition says the number of marijuana-related arrests has negatively impacted the commonwealth as a whole. They are asking Governor Beshear to follow in President Biden’s footsteps and pardon Kentuckians who have convictions for misdemeanor possession of cannabis.

In 2022, Governor Beshear signed an executive order for the use of medical marijuana purchased legally in another state. If a new executive order is signed, the coalition is asking that House Bill 72 be used as the framework. The bill would allow the personal use of cannabis to be exempt from civil or criminal penalty.