P O S I T I O N S T A T E M E N T
November 16, 2022
Louisville Urban League’s Statement on Governor Andy Beshear’s Executive Order Related to Medical Cannabis
The Louisville Urban League commends Governor Andy Beshear for his Executive Order, announced yesterday, which allows some Kentuckians to utilize medical cannabis purchased in other states to ease the pain and symptoms of certain medical conditions and as an alternative to dangerous and addictive medications. This is a bold and good step for the Commonwealth.
The continued criminalization of cannabis is a barrier to necessary, doctor-approved, medical treatment for millions of people. It has also allowed racist systems to oppress and penalize Black Kentuckians at rates 9 times higher than white Kentuckians. The Kentucky General Assembly should quickly move to pass full medical cannabis legislation, and allow Kentuckians to receive the help they need closer to home. We also stand with the National Urban League and others and call on the Assembly to pass legislation legalizing cannabis as many other states have done–stopping the criminalization of recreational cannabis usage by adults and ending the disproportionate harm done to Black and marginalized communities.
Furthermore, we urge Gov. Beshear and the Kentucky General Assembly to align with recent federal action to pardon people convicted under state possession laws and automatically expunge those convictions from their records.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
[email protected] | (502) 512-3681
About the Louisville Urban League
The Louisville Urban League assists African Americans and those at the margins in attaining social and economic equality and stability through direct services and advocacy. For more information, go to lul.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter (@louisvilleUL), or Instagram (@louisville_ul).
