History of Legalization in Kansas
As of July 2025, cannabis policies in Kansas one of the most restrictive in the United States. Recreational and medical marijuana both remain illegal and the state's history of cannabis law dates back to prohibition in 1927. Most states west of the Mississippi, including in Kansas, started their unique experiences with early prohibition practices. In 2018, the Lawrence, Kansas legislature started movement on cannabis when SB 282 redefined marijuana to exclude cannabidiol (CBD), thus legalizing CBD products with 0% THC for broad access. Then, in 2019, SB 28 (Claire and Lola’s Law) created an affirmative defense for patients or guardians who possess CBD oils with up to 5% THC for use to treat debilitating medical conditions. Again, an affirmative defense will not prevent one's arrest or prosecution nor does it legalize the sale or production of a specific cannabis product. In 2023, multiple bills were introduced to help lessen restrictions.
SB 171 (Veterans First Medical Cannabis Act) would have legalized medical marijuana for individuals who have cancer, PTSD and epilepsy, while raising 15% tax revenues to support veterans. HB 2363 was designed to decriminalize possession of cannabis or cannabis products. SB 135 and HB 2367 were books using primary legislation for both medical and recreational cannabis, however, none of those bills have passed. A 2024 medical marijuana bill (SB 555) was postponed to the 2025 legislative session simply for opposition due to it's restrictive pilot program. A 2023 survey conducted by Fort Hays State University identified the current public support for the legalization of recreational marijuana in Kansas to be up to 70%, which indicated there is acceleration in movement, but unfortunately Kansas is still one of only 4 states where any and all forms of marijuana are completely illegal.












