The Kansas Medical Cannabis Act establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the cultivation, processing, distribution, and use of medical cannabis in Kansas. It creates a regulatory structure that includes licensing for various entities such as cultivators, processors, and pharmacies, while also establishing the Kansas Medical Cannabis Registration Fund and the Medical Cannabis Regulation Fund to support the act's administration. The act amends existing laws and repeals certain sections to align with the new regulations, providing exceptions to unlawful manufacture and possession of controlled substances concerning medical cannabis. It also outlines the roles of state agencies and the Kansas Medical Cannabis Advisory Board, which will advise on regulations, qualifying medical conditions, and patient registration.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions to protect the rights of patients and caregivers using medical cannabis, ensuring they are not discriminated against in housing, education, or public assistance programs. It prohibits health insurance policies from denying coverage based solely on medical cannabis use and clarifies that such use will not affect custody determinations. The bill also revises penalties related to DUI offenses and establishes stricter regulations for drug offenses, while ensuring that individuals with valid medical cannabis identification cards are not penalized for possession. Overall, the legislation aims to create a structured and regulated environment for medical cannabis use while enhancing public safety and accountability in related legal matters.
Statutes affected: As introduced: 8-1567, 75-52, 21-5703, 21-5705, 21-5706, 21-5707, 21-5709, 21-5710, 21-6109, 21-6607, 22-3717, 22-4714, 23-3201, 38-2269, 44-501, 44-706, 44-1009, 44-1015, 65-1120, 65-28b08, 79-5201, 79-5210