Kentucky’s First Medical Cannabis Dispensary Opens This Weekend

Kentucky’s First Licensed Medical Marijuana Dispensary Set to Open This Weekend, Governor Warns Supplies Will Be Limited

Kentucky is officially entering the medical cannabis market this weekend as the state’s first licensed dispensary prepares to open its doors. Governor Andy Beshear (D) announced that The Post Dispensary in Beaver Dam will begin serving registered medical cannabis patients on Saturday, with products supplied by the state’s first licensed cultivator, Farmtucky.

“This news makes Saturday the first day that safe, regulated medical cannabis is available to patients, and it makes The Post our first fully approved and licensed medical dispensary in the state,” Beshear said during a Thursday press briefing. He emphasized that the program prioritizes patients suffering from cancer, PTSD, MS, and other serious medical conditions.

Limited Supply Expected on Opening Day, Patients Urged to Act Quickly

The governor cautioned that supply will be limited and could run out by the end of the day. The dispensary will operate from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or until stock is depleted, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9 a.m. marking the milestone.

“This shows certainly what’s coming, and this is a big mark that we have now hit in this program,” Beshear added, signaling the state’s commitment to patient access despite the anticipated high demand.

Medical Marijuana as an Alternative to Opioids, Program Growth Highlights

Governor Beshear highlighted the broader public health benefits of the program, noting that over 23,000 patients have received e-certifications to access medical cannabis. Among them, 1,800 patients qualify for cancer treatment, and 15,000 with chronic pain may use cannabis instead of opioids.

“Providing access to medical cannabis can help reduce reliance on opioids, which is one of the reasons that we’ve pushed this program so hard,” Beshear said.

Licensing Milestones and Statewide Program Infrastructure

Kentucky has approved 16 cultivators, 48 dispensaries, and six safety compliance facilities. Additionally, 506 doctors are certified to issue medical cannabis recommendations, reflecting the state’s significant preparatory work to ensure patient access.

Beshear also noted the importance of crossing the 15,000 patient registration milestone in late October, which has continued to grow in recent weeks as the state accelerates enrollment.

Governor Advocates for Federal Cannabis Rescheduling and Patient Rights

On the federal level, Beshear has been an outspoken advocate for marijuana rescheduling, having sent letters to President Donald Trump urging reconsideration of Schedule I restrictions under the Controlled Substances Act. He emphasized that legal access to cannabis supports patient relief, community safety, and research opportunities.

Beshear also participated in advocacy letters to the DEA and Kentucky’s congressional delegation, seeking protections for medical cannabis patients regarding firearm possession and broader federal reform.

Executive Orders Provide Interim Patient Protections

While dispensaries have not been operational until now, Beshear reaffirmed that executive orders signed in 2023 remain in effect, protecting patients who obtain medical cannabis from licensed out-of-state retailers. Additionally, he has waived renewal fees for patients who obtain their cards this year to ensure uninterrupted access once dispensaries open.

The governor has also launched an online dispensary directory to help patients locate licensed outlets in their area, further facilitating safe and legal access.

Local Support for Medical Cannabis Businesses Across Kentucky

Kentucky voters have demonstrated strong local support for medical cannabis. During last year’s November elections, more than 100 cities and counties approved ordinances allowing dispensaries and related businesses in their jurisdictions. Beshear cited these results as evidence that medical cannabis enjoys bipartisan and widespread backing throughout the state.

Preparing Patients and Health Practitioners for the Launch

Health practitioners have been able to assess patients for recommendations since December of the previous year, giving the state time to ensure that patient access aligns with licensing and compliance requirements. The governor has offered guidance on how patients can find doctors and complete registration, emphasizing the state’s commitment to patient-centric rollout.

Kentucky’s first dispensary launch represents a major milestone in the commonwealth’s medical cannabis program, with Beshear emphasizing that “the jury is no longer out” on the issue of legalized medical marijuana, which voters have clearly supported.

For Kentucky hemp and cannabis businesses navigating the rapidly changing regulatory landscape, resources like Cannabis Risk Manager offer critical guidance on compliance, risk management, and operational planning to protect employees, assets, and patient access.