Kentucky Lawmaker Pushing To Remove Criminal Penalties For Small Marijuana Possession, Use

Two bills were pre-filed on Monday ahead of the upcoming legislative session.

Shutterstock photo.

(Louisville, Ky.) – A Kentucky lawmaker has pre-filed two bills that would remove criminal penalties for possessing and using small amounts of marijuana.

State Rep. Nima Kulkarni (Louisville) pre-filled the legislation on Monday.

The first bill would allow Kentuckians 21 or older possess, use, buy or sell up to one ounce of cannabis without criminal penalty. The legislation would also allow those of age to own up to five plants for personal use.

Kulkarni says the General Assembly would control the regulation how cannabis is grown, taxed, and sold.

Her second bill would take away criminal penalties for possessing, cultivating, or selling small amounts of cannabis, while maintaining penalties for possessing larger amounts.

Kulkarni says her bills “complement each other and would remove current statutes that have needlessly and tragically ruined many lives, especially people of color who have suffered because of unequal enforcement.”

If approved by three-fifths of the House and Senate during the upcoming legislative session, Kulkarni’s constitutional amendment would go before voters next November.

More from Local News

Events

Former Madison Mayor sentenced to probation in child exploitation case

He will have register has a sex offender for 10 years

Brent Spence Bridge Companion Bridge Set to Begin Construction

Groundbreaking set to take place this spring; opportunities for construction jobs at $30 per hour available

Versailles IGA Named 2026 USA Centennial Retailer of the Year

The Retailer of the Year award recognizes independently owned grocery retailers.

Jennings Co's Ernstes Selected for Hoosier Gym All-Star Game

The All-Star Game is set for April 25.

Local Sports Report - March 14, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

Former East Central Star Named NE10 Championship Most Outstanding Player

Hope Fox and the Southern Connecticut State Owls are a No. 1 seed heading into the DII Tourney.

On Air

Your Hometown Radio Station playing
Zach Top - Cold Beer and Country Music

Sara Evans Cheatin' 4:14
Jimmie Allen Best Shot 4:10
Jameson Rodgers Cold Beer Calling My Name 4:07
George Strait She Let Herself Go 4:04