Kentucky Laws and Programs

Recent findings from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health show increasing rates of drug abuse and dependence in Kentucky. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration currently considers the following drugs as significant threats in the state: marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine, and diverted prescription drugs.

Kentucky is ranked second nationally in total domestic marijuana production, most of which is grown in the rugged Appalachian region of the state. This region, located in the southeastern part of Kentucky, is also known for diverted prescription drugs.

Prescription opioid abuse has been of particular concern for law enforcement officials and healthcare providers. Per capita, select eastern Kentucky counties lead the nation in prescription opioid distribution. Additionally, recent trends involve residents of eastern Kentucky traveling as far as Florida to procure prescription ...