Kansas Lawmakers to Hold Two-Day Hearings on Medical Cannabis

The Kansas Legislative Coordinating Council has allocated 56 days for committees to debate policy issues ahead of the 2025 session. A significant focus will be on medical cannabis legislation, with Republican Sen. Michael Fagg advocating for joint House and Senate hearings to explore legalization options. This follows the U.S. Department of Justice’s proposal to reclassify cannabis, potentially easing restrictions on research and development.

Medical Cannabis Hearings

The Senate Utilities Committee, led by Sen. Fagg, has been granted two days for interim meetings to discuss medical cannabis legalization. The committee will examine the impact of reclassifying THC-containing cannabis from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug. The hearings will also consider access for veterans and patients with severe medical conditions, as well as CBD enforcement in Kansas.

Addressing Healthcare and Housing

The Council approved one day for a special committee to review case management services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Sen. Chase Blasi emphasized the need for legislative oversight due to potential changes by Governor Laura Kelly’s administration. Additionally, four days were allocated to the Bethel Committee to examine Medicaid services, and two days for a joint committee to address housing affordability and availability, with a focus on homes under $200,000.

Security, Corrections, and Child Welfare

The Kansas Security Committee received two days to review state security protocols, including preparations for the 2026 World Cup. The Jennings Corrections and Juvenile Justice Oversight Committee was given three days to study corrections programs, including nursery programs for incarcerated mothers. The child welfare committee was allotted four days to understand child maltreatment and review relevant state agencies and demographic trends.

University Employee Salaries

The Senate and House appropriations committees will devote two days to hearings on a salary study for employees at Kansas universities and Washburn University, addressing compensation issues within the state’s higher education system.