MAYFIELD, Ky. (WSIL) — Kentucky has officially broken ground on its first medical cannabis safety compliance facility, marking a significant development in the state’s cannabis industry. The facility, funded by State38 LLC with an investment of approximately $1 million, is expected to create around 12 jobs for local residents.
Governor Andy Beshear emphasized the state’s commitment to providing safe and quality medical cannabis access for Kentuckians with qualifying conditions. ‘I’m excited to see this new industry take root here in Graves County, because I believe health care is a basic human right,’ he stated during the groundbreaking ceremony.
The establishment of this facility follows the signing of House Bill 829 on April 17, 2024, which expedited the medical cannabis licensing process by six months. Since the state began accepting applications on July 1, 2024, a number of cannabis-related businesses have emerged, including Centaurus Farms KY LLC, which launched last month in Wayne County. Additionally, Cresco Labs opened a cultivator facility in Clark County, further advancing Kentucky’s cannabis landscape.
As of now, patients with conditions ranging from cancer to PTSD can apply for medical cannabis cards in Kentucky. Since legalization on January 1, 2025, over 15,000 Kentuckians have received certifications, with more than 10,000 securing their medical cannabis cards.
Kentucky State Representative Kim Holloway remarked on the importance of the new compliance facility for the local community. ‘Once completed, this facility will ensure the safety and quality of medical cannabis products in Kentucky. It will also promote innovation, create jobs, and drive economic growth in Graves County, positioning our community at the forefront of this growing industry,’ she said.
This development represents a pivotal moment for Kentucky as it embraces the medical cannabis sector, aiming to provide patients with safe and regulated product access while fostering local economic opportunities.