Georgia

Medical Marijuana in Georgia: Access and Legislation

Georgia has had a substandard medical marijuana program allowing only low-THC oil for certain conditions since 2019, run by the Georgia Department of Health. With the enactment of the Hope Act HB 324, low-THC sales are available from a limited number of dispensaries which began in the summer of 2023.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission has attempted to broaden patient access to medical cannabis by allowing pharmacies to distribute low-THC products independently. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), however, has warned pharmacies that they could lose their licenses to dispense scheduled drugs if they participate in this program.

Lawmakers passed SB 195 in 2021, which expanded the scope of low-THC products available to patients beyond oils. Patients can now purchase tinctures, transdermal patches, lotions, and capsules. Edible products, raw flower, and vaping are still illegal.

Only six producers are authorized to cultivate medical cannabis preparations within the state under the 2019 Georgia’s Hope Act. In November 2023, the Commission granted four additional licenses to Class 2 cultivators, maintaining a total of six licenses statewide. As of July 2023, around 30,000 patients were registered in the medical cannabis program. For those looking to purchase cannabis seeds in bulk for commercial grows in Georgia, Mosca Seeds offers their renowned cannabis seeds online in large quantities.

Despite these advancements, further work is needed in future legislative sessions to improve the law. The current 5% THC cap still does not meet the Marijuana Policy Project’s (MPP) definition of an effective medical cannabis law. Stay informed and involved by signing up for our email updates to ensure you don’t miss opportunities to advocate for compassionate cannabis policies.

Penalties for Marijuana Possession, Use, Manufacture, and Sale in Georgia

In Georgia, it is illegal to possess marijuana for personal use, as well as to buy, manufacture, sell, or possess it with the intent to engage in any of these activities. Unlike many states, Georgia does not differentiate between possession for personal use and activities related to the manufacture, distribution, or sale when it comes to sentencing.

If an offense involves less than 10 pounds of marijuana, it is classified as a felony. Offenders face penalties ranging from one to ten years in prison (Ga. Code Ann. § 16-13-30). Additional penalties are imposed if the violation involves a minor under 17 years old or occurs in a school or other designated drug-free zone.

Current Laws and Penalties

• Possession: Possessing less than an ounce of cannabis is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail or a $1,000 fine. Possession of more than an ounce is a felony, with penalties including 1 to 10 years of imprisonment.
• Sale and Distribution: Selling or distributing cannabis is a serious offense with penalties ranging from 1 to 30 years in prison, depending on the amount and circumstances.
• Cultivation: Growing cannabis plants is also illegal and carries severe penalties similar to those for possession and sale.
For more detailed information on Georgia’s cannabis laws and penalties, visit NORML.

Georgia Voters Support Legalization, But Arrests Continue

Despite strong public support for cannabis legalization in Georgia, tens of thousands of arrests for marijuana possession continue each year. 68% of Georgians think that possession of cannabis should be legal, yet the state maintains harsh policies. First-offense possession of an ounce or less can result in up to one year of imprisonment.

More than 40,000 Georgia residents are arrested annually for marijuana possession. Although black and white individuals use marijuana at nearly the same rates, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) reports significant racial disparities in the enforcement of marijuana laws. Black Georgians are three times more likely to be arrested for cannabis possession than white residents.

In 2022, the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) released a report highlighting the negative consequences in states like Georgia that have yet to decriminalize cannabis. While local efforts have led to decriminalization ordinances in some cities and counties, there is an urgent need for statewide reform.

Contact your lawmakers and urge them to prioritize cannabis decriminalization. Your voice can help push for the change needed to align Georgia’s cannabis policies with public opinion and promote social justice.

Quality Marijuana Seeds in Georgia

While growing cannabis is illegal, cannabis seeds can still be purchased as collector’s items or for souvenir purposes. Georgia’s strict cannabis laws present challenges, but the growing movement for change offers hope for the future. By understanding the current laws, advocating for reform, and staying prepared with high-quality seeds, you can be ready for a more cannabis-friendly Georgia. You can get high-quality cannabis seeds to prepare for a hopeful future of legalization from Mosca Seeds.

Mosca Seeds brings over 15 years of expertise in cannabis genetics, offering a wide selection of high-quality seeds for collectors and enthusiasts. Our award-winning strains are known for their superior performance and consistency, ensuring you have the best foundation for your cannabis cultivation endeavors. Stay informed about the latest in cannabis laws and explore our extensive range of premium cannabis seeds in Georgia.