A bill seeking to regulate hemp-derived products like CBD and Delta-8 in Georgia is awaiting Governor Brian Kemp's signature after passing through the state legislature. The Georgia Hemp Farming Act would impose testing requirements, age restrictions, and licensing rules on these increasingly popular marijuana products.
The Benefits of Medical Marijuana
While opinions are divided on this hemp regulation bill, it highlights the need for clear policies surrounding marijuana and its derivatives; particularly for medical use. Numerous studies have shown the therapeutic potential of marijuana and its components like CBD for conditions like chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and more.
Accessing medical marijuana allows patients legal access to marijuana products that can provide significant relief with proper medical supervision. Georgia's low-THC medical marijuana program is still limited, but could expand further with continued advocacy.
Opposing Views on Hemp Regulation
The Georgia Hemp Farming Act would:
Prohibit sale of hemp products to anyone under 21
Require testing of hemp-derived consumables like CBD edibles
Establish licensing for manufacture and sale of hemp products
Ban synthetic isomers like Delta-8 and Delta-10 that can produce intoxicating effects
Proponents argue the bill will prevent accidental ingestion of marijuana products by children and assure quality control. Critics like the Georgia Poison Center's Gaylord Lopez contend it essentially legalizes unregulated intoxicating products by allowing manipulation of hemp to create synthetic cannabinoids. The Georgia Medical Cannabis Society is also urging a veto, stating increased regulations could shut down smaller marijuana businesses due to compliance costs.
Georgia has a limited medical marijuana program allowing low-THC marijuana oil for certain qualifying conditions. However, recreational use remains fully criminalized which forces many patients into the illicit market. A 2021 Atlanta Journal-Constitution poll found over 60% of Georgians support legalizing marijuana for recreational use by adults. Medical advocates continue pushing to expand the program's qualifying conditions and allowable THC levels.
Looking Ahead
Whether Governor Kemp signs or vetoes the hemp bill, the episode underscores Georgia's need to reconcile its marijuana policies with public opinion and medical realities. The rapidly evolving hemp and CBD markets require clear regulation distinguishing hemp products from marijuana and synthetic drugs.
For patients suffering debilitating symptoms, progressive reform of Georgia's medical marijuana laws could provide much-needed relief through safe, legal access to marijuana therapeutics. As public acceptance grows, perhaps full legalization for adult use isn't far behind.
Get Ready for Medical Marijuana in Georgia
Despite some delays, Georgia will soon have access to medical marijuana! To give patients the relief they deserve, we hope Georgia dispensaries will open their doors in 2024.
If you are still determining if you qualify, we can help! Just give us a call.
You can reserve an evaluation online today with one of our compassionate marijuana doctors, and we'll make an appointment as soon as possible. Feel free to ask any questions in the meantime!
You and your new doctor will discuss your conditions and whether you qualify for a Georgia Marijuana Card. And if you make your reservation online today, you'll save $25 off your evaluation!
Feel free to call us at (866) 781-5606, and we can help answer your questions about getting medical marijuana in Georgia.
It is essential to be ready to acquire safe, legal medication when the time comes so you don't have to wait any longer for the relief you need. If you want to stay current on Georgia's medical marijuana laws, sign up for our email and read our weekly blogs.
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