This bill amends K.S.A. 21-5706 to provide an exception for residents of Kansas who are disabled veterans and possess marijuana, provided they have a valid medical marijuana card issued by any state. The bill maintains the existing prohibitions against the unlawful possession of controlled substances, including opiates, narcotics, and various other drugs, while introducing a new affirmative defense for disabled veterans. This defense allows them to possess marijuana or tetrahydrocannabinols if they meet specific criteria, including being a resident of Kansas and holding a valid medical marijuana card.

Additionally, the bill outlines the penalties for violations of the possession laws, with marijuana-related offenses classified as a class B nonperson misdemeanor or a class A nonperson misdemeanor depending on prior convictions. The bill also defines "disabled veteran" and clarifies that acting on behalf of another party in a controlled substance transaction does not serve as a defense. The existing section of K.S.A. 21-5706 is repealed, and the new provisions will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 21-5706
As introduced: 21-5706