(FRANKFORT, Ky.)-A bill that would allow bars, restaurants and event venues to sell cannabis-infused beverages by the drink cleared a Senate committee Tuesday, moving the measure closer to a full Senate vote.
Under current Kentucky law, cannabis-infused beverages containing no more than five milligrams of intoxicating cannabinoids per 12-ounce serving can be sold in the state, but only in sealed packages — not for on-site consumption. Senate Bill 223 would create a new permit allowing establishments that already hold alcohol licenses to sell individual THC drinks to customers 21 and older.
“This bill establishes a clear regulatory framework for cannabis-infused beverages in Kentucky under the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, which I think is where it should be,” said sponsor Sen. Stephen Meredith of Leitchfield.
The bill would also create an open-container offense for THC beverages in vehicles, bringing those rules in line with existing alcohol law. Meredith described the measure simply as regulating THC beverages the same way the state regulates alcohol.
Jim Higdon, co-founder of Louisville-based Cornbread Hemp, testified in support, saying the bill builds on legislation passed last year that established an initial regulatory framework for cannabis beverages in Kentucky.
Not everyone was on board. Gene Cole, president of the Kentucky Ethics League, testified against the bill, citing concerns about impaired driving and the risks of expanding access to another intoxicating beverage. Jack Mazurak of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association urged caution, warning that the bill could broaden access to THC drinks before federal regulators have established clear rules for hemp-derived products.
The question of federal oversight came up repeatedly during the hearing. Sen. Amanda Mays Bledsoe raised the issue, and Meredith acknowledged that federal regulation of hemp products remains unsettled. Mazurak echoed that concern, saying the FDA and other federal agencies need to align on hemp regulations before states move too far ahead.
Sen. Jimmy Higdon pushed back on those concerns and spoke in favor of the bill, noting that no health or public safety problems have emerged from last year’s law allowing boxed THC beverages to be sold in liquor stores.
“Today we’re talking about Kentucky and its regulation, and right now we’re the only ones with authority over this product,” Higdon said.
The Senate Licensing and Occupations Committee passed the bill 9-2. It now heads to the full Senate.
PHOTO-Sen. Stephen Meredith, R-Leitchfield, speaks on Senate Bill 223 during Tuesday’s meeting of the Senate Licensing and Occupations Committee.
