As cannabis laws continue to evolve across the country, Georgia’s rules remain more restrictive than those in many neighboring states.
Recreational marijuana is still illegal statewide in Georgia. Under state law, marijuana remains a controlled substance, and possession, cultivation and sale can lead to criminal penalties.
While some cities have reduced penalties for small amounts of marijuana, those local ordinances do not override Georgia law.
That distinction has created confusion as hemp-derived products become increasingly common on store shelves across the state.
Here’s what else to know.
Georgia allows the sale of legal hemp products that comply with state and federal regulations. Those products may include hemp-derived cannabinoids, including certain THC products that meet legal requirements.
At the same time, Georgia’s medical cannabis program allows registered patients with qualifying conditions to possess low-THC cannabis oil.
According to Kohn & Yager Attorneys, patients must be enrolled in the state’s registry program and follow specific requirements established under Georgia law.
Traditional recreational marijuana remains illegal in Georgia.
State law generally treats possession of less than one ounce as a misdemeanor, while possession of more than one ounce can result in felony charges. Selling, trafficking or cultivating marijuana can carry even steeper penalties.
The growing popularity of hemp-derived products has blurred the line for many consumers.
Products marketed as THC gummies, drinks, vapes and other hemp-derived items can often be legally purchased in Georgia if they comply with hemp regulations.
However, that does not mean recreational marijuana itself has been legalized. For consumers, the key difference often comes down to how the product is derived and whether it meets Georgia’s hemp laws.
Vanessa Johns is the Trending Topics Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team Georgia, covering food and entertainment. Email her at Vcountryman@gannett.com.