Bill > SB294

This bill enacts the Kansas Medical Cannabis Act to establish a comprehensive framework for the legal cultivation, processing, distribution, sale, and use of medical cannabis in Kansas. The bill creates a detailed regulatory system that includes multiple key provisions: This bill establishes a comprehensive medical cannabis program that allows patients with qualifying medical conditions to obtain and use medical cannabis. Patients will need to obtain an identification card after receiving a recommendation from a qualified medical provider. The bill defines a wide range of qualifying medical conditions, including chronic conditions like cancer, PTSD, epilepsy, and persistent pain. The program will be overseen by a 24-member Medical Cannabis Advisory Board that will provide recommendations on implementation and can review and modify the list of qualifying conditions. The regulatory framework includes licensing for various entities involved in the medical cannabis supply chain, such as cultivators, processors, laboratories, and medical cannabis pharmacies. Licenses will be limited in number and subject to strict background checks and operational requirements. The bill establishes two new state funds to support the program's administration: the Medical Cannabis Registration Fund and the Medical Cannabis Regulation Fund. The legislation provides robust protections for patients, including preventing discrimination in employment, housing, child custody, and other areas based on medical cannabis use. It also addresses potential conflicts with existing laws, such as ensuring that patients are not denied organ transplants or other medical services solely because of medical cannabis use. The bill includes detailed provisions for testing, packaging, transportation, and disposal of medical cannabis, with an emphasis on public safety and product quality. It also establishes penalties for violations of the act and creates mechanisms for ongoing oversight and potential program modifications. Implementation is set to begin on January 1, 2026, with the secretary of health and environment developing rules and regulations to operationalize the program in the interim.

Government Affairs

Federal and State Affairs (S)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb294/