Governor Andy Beshear today signed an executive order waiving the 2026 renewal fee for medical marijuana cardholders who received their cards in 2025.
The move comes as Team Kentucky confirms locations for 39 of the 48 planned dispensaries across the state. To help patients locate nearby access points, the Kentucky Office of Medical Cannabis has launched a public Dispensary Directory, available by clicking here.
Patients began applying for medical cannabis cards on January 1, 2025. Since then, over 10,000 cards have been issued, along with more than 15,000 written certifications from medical providers. The Office of Medical Cannabis has already licensed 81 cannabis businesses across all license types.
In the executive order, Governor Beshear noted that the renewal fee waiver ensures that cardholders who signed up in the program’s inaugural year can continue receiving benefits without an added financial burden. The standard $25 renewal fee will be waived in 2026 for those who properly reapply and qualify.
Kentucky’s medical marijuana law, Senate Bill 47, was signed into law on March 31, 2023, and took effect June 29, 2023. As of January 1, 2025, patients with qualifying conditions have been allowed to legally access medical marijuana products through state-licensed dispensaries.
The program allows access to medical marijuana for patients with serious conditions, such as cancer, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, and other chronic illnesses. The goal, according to Governor Beshear, is to ensure Kentuckians suffering from severe health conditions can obtain safe, affordable relief.
“This step ensures Kentuckians aren’t paying for a card they can’t use,” Governor Beshear said in the executive order. “We’re committed to building a responsible, compassionate program that works for the people who need it most.”
