LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A Kentucky lawmaker is pushing to decriminalize marijuana before any attempt is made to fully legalize recreational use in the state.
Medical marijuana is legal in Kentucky, but recreational use remains prohibited. State Rep. Nima Kulkarni, a Democrat, says that needs to change — starting with the state constitution.
“I think certainly the times have changed,” Kulkarni said.
She points to a national shift as well. In December, the president signed an executive order directing federal agencies to move marijuana from a Schedule I drug to Schedule III.
Kulkarni says attitudes toward cannabis are evolving in Kentucky, too.
“So, for instance in Jefferson County our county attorney will not prosecute … for possession of up to an ounce of cannabis,” she said. “A lot of counties in Kentucky do that anyway in practice.”
Kentucky House Bill 199
Kulkarni is sponsoring House Bill 199, which would add a new section to Kentucky’s constitution to decriminalize marijuana. The measure would allow adults 21 and older to possess, use, buy or sell one ounce or less of cannabis for personal use.
“I think there is overwhelming support from people,” Kulkarni said. “So even if a particular lawmaker doesn’t agree, I bet their constituents do.”
The proposal would need approval from both the House and Senate before it could appear on the November ballot for voters to decide.
Patrick Dunegan with the Kentucky Cannabis Freedom Coalition is working alongside Kulkarni. He says the bill empowers people on both sides of the issue.
“This bill gives people who do not support cannabis reform the ability to use their voice,” Dunegan said. “So if you don’t support it then vote on it.”
His message to lawmakers: “Pass this piece of legislation so they can vote on it. Y’all have better things to worry about.”
It remains unclear how much support the bill will receive from Republican leaders in Frankfort.
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