As we usher in 2025, Kentuckians should prepare for changes under new laws that go into effect starting this year.
Medical Marijuana Program Launches
Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, Kentuckians suffering from certain chronic illnesses will have access to medical cannabis. Licensed dispensaries are set to begin sales, but since all medical marijuana must be grown in-state, product availability could face delays at the start of the year.
To participate in the program, patients will need a medical cannabis card, which also becomes available on Jan. 1. Eligibility requires written certification from an authorized doctor.
Meanwhile, dozens of businesses across Kentucky have already been licensed to grow and process medical marijuana. Check out an interactive map to see where these businesses plan to operate.
Vision Test Required for Driver’s License Renewals
Although House Bill 439 was signed into law back in 2021, its full implementation will begin in 2025. The new law mandates that anyone renewing their Kentucky driver’s license must first pass a vision test.
Vision tests can be completed at any Driver Licensing Regional Office in the state during renewal. Alternatively, applicants can submit a form signed by their doctor, confirming they’ve passed a vision test within the last year.
This change aims to ensure safer roads by identifying and addressing vision issues that could impair driving.
Stricter Vape Product Regulations
House Bill 11 takes aim at youth vaping, a growing concern in Kentucky and across the nation. Starting Jan. 1, vape retailers in the state can only sell products that have received FDA approval or hold a “safe harbor certification.”
As of now, the FDA has approved just 23 vape products out of over a million applications, meaning the majority of vape products currently on the market will soon become illegal to sell in Kentucky.
The law has faced pushback from retailers, with four businesses filing a lawsuit against the state in April. They argue that the new restrictions could render most of their stock unsellable, potentially forcing them out of business.
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This article appears in Dec 18, 2024 – Jan 16, 2025.