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ATLANTA — Georgia is one signature away from a major overhaul of its medical marijuana program, as Senate Bill 220 awaits action from Gov. Brian Kemp following final approval at the state Capitol.
The measure, known as the “Putting Georgia’s Patients First Act,” would expand and simplify access to medical cannabis in a state supporters say has lagged behind others. Despite bipartisan backing in the Legislature, it remains unclear whether Kemp will sign or veto the bill.
If enacted, the legislation would significantly change how medical cannabis is regulated and used in Georgia. It would shift the program away from a system based on THC percentages to one centered on standardized milligram dosing, a move doctors say would be easier for patients to understand and use safely. The bill would also expand access to additional forms of cannabis, including vape products, and increase patient education.
“This would allow, for example, vape pens,” said Dr. Elmore Alexander, who has advocated for changes to the current system. He said Georgia’s existing approach is confusing and limits effective treatment options. “We have tinctures, we have gummies, we have troches — not everybody gets the same effect, and we needed something, especially for veterans, who need something to get into their system much more fast.”
For patients like Gary Herbert, a 46-year-old veteran from Douglasville, the proposed changes could be life-altering. Herbert said he turned to cannabis after relying on powerful narcotics prescribed by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
“Before cannabis was morphine and Dilaudid — heavy, heavy narcotics on a daily basis,” Herbert said. “Cannabis has improved my way of life. It’s improved a lot of things, including helping me get off of opiates.”
Supporters argue the bill would open the door for more patients to access alternative treatments. “Treatment options will be available — they need immediate relief — and I know this bill will help us pursue those options,” Herbert said.
Lawmakers passed the bill after years of debate over how to improve Georgia’s limited medical cannabis program. Advocates say the current system is difficult for both physicians and patients to navigate.
Under Georgia law, the governor has 40 days after the legislative session to sign or veto the measure. If he takes no action, the bill can still become law without his signature. A veto would require a two-thirds vote in both chambers of the Legislature to override.
For now, patients and advocates across the state are closely watching Kemp’s decision, which could affect thousands of Georgians seeking expanded access to medical cannabis.