SB 202 SIGNED INTO LAW TO REGULATE CANNABIS-INFUSED BEVERAGES IN KENTUCKY

SB 202 SIGNED INTO LAW TO REGULATE

CANNABIS-INFUSED BEVERAGES IN KENTUCKY

Measure sponsored by Sen. Julie Raque Adams sets product limits, licensing structure, and directs future study

FRANKFORT, KY (March 26, 2025)— Senate Bill (SB) 202, sponsored by Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, has been signed into law to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for cannabis-infused beverages in Kentucky.

The new law, which passed with bipartisan support, clarifies product labeling, defines agency oversight responsibilities, and institutes fee structures for cannabis-infused beverage licensees. Importantly, it also directs continued study of the impact of cannabinoid beverages on public health and commerce in Kentucky.

“This legislation ensures that as this emerging industry takes shape, Kentucky leads with a balanced approach that protects public health, supports responsible business practices, and promotes transparency,” said Adams. “I’m grateful to my colleagues and the administration for recognizing the importance of thoughtful regulation in this space.”

Under SB 202, the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) will regulate the cannabis-infused beverage industry, including licensing, enforcement, and product standards. The law sets limits on intoxicating ingredients, establishes license types and associated fees, and outlines a timeline for the ABC to develop and adopt regulations.

To support informed policymaking, the University of Kentucky Cannabis Center will conduct a study on cannabinoid beverages, with findings due in 2026. The law also temporarily extends certain sales permissions while the regulatory framework is finalized.

“This is a fast-evolving area, and SB 202 positions Kentucky to approach it with clarity, caution, and a commitment to smart policy,” Adams said.

For more information on SB 202 and the 2025 Kentucky General Assembly, visit www.Legislature.ky.gov.

###

Sen. Julie Raque Adams, R-Louisville, represents Kentucky’s 36th Senate District in eastern Jefferson County. Adams chairs the Senate Licensing and Occupations Committee. She also serves as a member of the Senate Committees on Banking and Insurance, Health Services, and State and Local Government. Adams is an Administrative Regulations Review Subcommittee member and recently served as a 2024 Kentucky Housing Task Force Member.

For a high-resolution .jpeg of Sen. Raque Adams, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate136.jpg.

Live legislative coverage is available at KET.org/legislature and via the Legislative Research Commission YouTube channel.

Access archived footage of legislative meetings at ket.org/legislature/archives.

Follow the Kentucky Senate Majority Caucus on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit KYSenateRepublicans.com for information on caucus members and to view press releases from our office.