The Kansas Health Freedom Act establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the use of medical cannabis in Kansas, including the creation of the Kansas Medical Cannabis Agency within the Department of Health and Environment. This agency will oversee the regulation and implementation of medical cannabis, including the issuance of patient and caregiver identification cards, and will be responsible for developing guidelines for licensing, security, and testing of cannabis products. Key provisions of the Act include the removal of cannabis from the Kansas Uniform Controlled Substances Act, protections for patients and caregivers against discrimination, and the establishment of a medical cannabis tax fund to support public health initiatives. The Act also allows for the expungement of certain cannabis-related convictions and mandates confidentiality for patient records.

Additionally, the bill introduces significant changes to the regulation of controlled substances, including the classification of marijuana and the penalties for possession and distribution of various drugs. It amends definitions related to controlled substances, including the removal of marijuana from the list of controlled substances, and establishes stricter controls on substances like pseudoephedrine and ephedrine. The legislation aims to enhance the regulatory framework surrounding both medical cannabis and controlled substances, ensuring clearer definitions and stronger enforcement mechanisms while promoting public health and safety.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 21-5701, 21-5705, 21-5706, 21-5709, 65-4101, 65-4105