In the heart of Kentucky, cannabis advocate Robert Matheny is making bold moves to protect the state’s hemp and cannabis industries. As the owner of Kentucky CBD Farmacy in Nicholasville and Danville, Matheny has spent years building a business rooted in wellness and advocacy. But by December 15, he will close his Nicholasville store and transfer ownership of his Danville location to his business partner — a decision that frees him to focus entirely on his role as a cannabis advocate in Frankfort.
“I’ll be in Frankfort every day once the legislative session begins,” Matheny said. “Our industry deserves answers, and our representatives need to represent us. That’s not asking for much.”
Matheny currently serves as Board Director for both the Kentucky Cannabis Freedom Coalition and the Kentucky Hemp Association. His work as a cannabis advocate spans nearly a decade, during which he has fought tirelessly for fair legislation and public education surrounding hemp and cannabis.
The veteran cannabis advocate warns that new language in the Fiscal Year 2026 Agriculture FDA Appropriations Bill could threaten the entire hemp industry. Proposed changes would reduce the amount of THC allowed in products, effectively eliminating many hemp-based businesses.
According to Matheny, “We’re competing with a medical marijuana industry that doesn’t even exist yet. For that program to thrive the way the state wants, they have to eliminate the competing hemp products.” As a passionate cannabis advocate, he believes this move would harm small business owners, farmers, and consumers across Kentucky.
Matheny also worries that the ongoing federal government shutdown will silence discussions about hemp altogether. Even if federal protections survive, he expects a tough state-level battle ahead one he can’t fight alone. As part of his advocacy, the cannabis advocate plans to invite every pro-cannabis supporter to send physical letters to their legislators. His stores will print the letters, provide stamps, and personally deliver them to Frankfort.
This hands-on effort underscores Matheny’s dedication as a cannabis advocate who not only speaks out but also empowers others to take action.
The Kentucky Cannabis Freedom Coalition and Kentucky Hemp Association, both guided by Matheny’s leadership as a cannabis advocate, will host a Cannabis Advocacy Day on January 6, 2026 the opening day of Kentucky’s legislative session.
For Matheny, being a cannabis advocate isn’t just about policy; it’s about protecting livelihoods, preserving freedom, and ensuring that Kentucky’s voice in the hemp and cannabis industry remains strong.