The Kansas Medical Cannabis Act establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the cultivation, processing, distribution, and use of medical cannabis in the state. It includes provisions for the licensure and regulation of various entities involved in the medical cannabis industry, such as cultivators, processors, and pharmacies, while creating the Medical Cannabis Registration Fund and the Medical Cannabis Regulation Fund. The act mandates the expungement of certain cannabis-related charges and imposes an 8% excise tax on medical cannabis sales, with revenue allocated to support childcare, economic development, mental health services, low-cost housing, and property tax rebates. Additionally, it outlines the roles of state agencies in administering the law and establishes a Kansas Medical Cannabis Advisory Board to guide regulations related to patient registration and physician certification.

The bill also introduces specific protections for patients and caregivers, ensuring their rights regarding firearm possession, public assistance, and educational settings. It prohibits discrimination based on medical cannabis use in employment and housing, while clarifying that the use of medical cannabis cannot be a factor in custody determinations. Furthermore, the legislation amends existing laws related to unemployment benefits, ensuring that individuals with valid medical cannabis identification cards are not disqualified for cannabis use. The act aims to create a structured and regulated environment for medical cannabis in Kansas, while also addressing broader issues of discrimination and public health.

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