Kentucky And Delaware Held Cannabis Licensing Lotteries, Ushering In New Regulated Markets
This week, Kentucky and Delaware held crucial licensing lotteries as part of their state cannabis programs, each paving a new path for regulated medical and recreational cannabis markets.
On October 29, Kentucky awarded its first 26 medical cannabis licenses through a lottery organized by the Kentucky Lottery Corporation, marking a significant milestone since the state legalized medical cannabis last year. The initial licenses went to 16 cultivators and 10 processors across the state, including a mix of counties from Jefferson to Warren, each reflecting Kentucky’s aim to establish statewide access to medical cannabis, reported Kentucky Lantern.
Governor Andy Beshear, a proponent of the medical cannabis program, commented on the program’s anticipated benefits for Kentuckians dealing with conditions like PTSD and cancer.
“Medical cannabis can help people, especially with really serious conditions,” Beshear said, adding that the state-grown products will serve residents without them needing to turn to other states. Kentucky’s Office of Medical Cannabis, led by executive director Sam Flynn, said the program’s focus is on equitable access and health-focused …