Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (D) last week indicated he expects medical cannabis dispensaries to be open in the state “before the end of the year.” During the September 4 Team Kentucky Update, Beshear said that some dispensaries still require inspections but that cultivation and processing operations are underway.
“I think everybody is working as hard and as fast as they can, but they’re wanting to make sure they do it right as well.” — Beshear, 9/4/25 Team Kentucky Update
In late July, the governor announced the approval of the commonwealth’s first dispensary – The Post Dispensary in Beaver Dam – and at the time said that he expected operations would commence in the fall. Cultivators licensed by the state began operations in July.
According to state data, more than 16,000 patients have been certified to use medical cannabis in Kentucky, and more than 11,500 patients have been issued their medical cannabis ID cards. The state’s dispensary map shows that more than 30 dispensaries have been approved throughout the state.
Beshear signed the medical cannabis law in 2023, and it took effect in 2025. In May, he issued an executive order waiving the $25 renewal application fee for the 2026 calendar year for anyone who received a medical cannabis card during 2025.
