Atlanta, Georgia, July 29, 2025
News Summary
Georgia lawmakers are reevaluating the state’s medical cannabis and hemp regulations due to growing concerns from industry participants and patients. While many U.S. states have embraced marijuana legalization, Georgia’s laws remain restrictive despite having legalized medical cannabis nearly a decade ago. Lawmakers are discussing increasing access to more effective cannabis products and addressing public safety concerns surrounding high-THC products. The recent passage of stricter regulations on hemp products may further shape the landscape of cannabis in Georgia, impacting thousands of residents reliant on these therapies.
Atlanta, Georgia – Georgia lawmakers are currently reassessing the state’s medical cannabis and hemp regulations amidst increasing concerns from industry participants and patients. The reevaluation comes as most U.S. states have legalized some form of medical or recreational marijuana, while Georgia’s laws remain notably restrictive despite legalizing medical cannabis use nearly a decade ago.
At a recent meeting at the State Capitol, a crowded committee room saw lawmakers focus their discussions primarily on two key areas: hemp-derived products, such as CBD, and the low-THC oil program designed for medical use. Currently, around 13,000 Georgians are registered to participate in the low-THC oil program, which provides them with limited access to medical cannabis products.
Many participants in the program have expressed frustration over the effectiveness of the products available. For instance, several patients reported struggles in managing chronic pain due to the limitations of current offerings. The state has authorized only 14 licensed dispensaries to sell low-THC oil, which many believe lack the necessary variety and potency to address immediate medical needs.
Advocates for change, including dispensary representatives, are urging lawmakers to consider the inclusion of faster-acting cannabis products like flower and inhalables, which could offer more immediate relief for patients suffering from severe conditions. In the current program, many patients experience delays in receiving effective relief, which they argue could be remedied through broader product availability.
Despite these discussions, some concerns have been raised regarding the safety of high-THC products. A few parents took the opportunity to voice issues regarding their underage children obtaining cannabis products illegally. This testimony underscores the complexity surrounding the regulation of cannabis in Georgia, where individuals seek therapeutic benefits while also grappling with public safety concerns.
State Representative Derrick Jackson has proposed legislation aimed at legalizing recreational marijuana in Georgia, emphasizing the need for responsible consumer empowerment similar to current alcohol laws. Continued committee meetings will explore potential cannabis legislation with an eye towards preparing for the 2026 legislative session.
Recently, the Georgia Senate passed two bills intended to introduce stricter regulations on hemp products. One of these bills entirely bans THC-infused drinks, while the other places limits on intoxicating ingredients like Delta-8 THC to a mere 0.3%. These proposed changes could remove a wide array of products from the market and are pending approval from the House before reaching Governor Brian Kemp.
Public safety concerns are a driving factor behind these legislative efforts. State Senator Bill Cowsert, who sponsored the ban on THC-infused drinks, articulated the need for regulatory measures to protect consumers. Concurrently, Senator Kay Kirkpatrick co-sponsored the bill regulating intoxicating hemp products as part of a strategy focused on consumer protection.
The recent push for stricter regulations followed a police raid on a smoke shop in South Fulton, where law enforcement was investigating the sale of illegal cannabis products. The growing prevalence of unregulated and potentially hazardous cannabis items has prompted these legislative changes aimed at improving consumer safety.
In addition to these regulatory measures, the Senate also approved legislation aimed at expanding access to medical marijuana, which includes the possibility of adding vaping options and clarifying eligibility criteria for patients.
As this dialogue around cannabis regulation unfolds in Georgia, the outcome of the current legislative reviews could significantly reshape the state’s approach to both medical cannabis and hemp products, thereby affecting thousands of Georgia residents reliant on these therapies.
FAQ Section
What is the current status of Georgia’s medical cannabis program?
Georgia’s medical cannabis program has been in place for nearly a decade but remains highly restrictive concerning product availability and qualifying conditions. Currently, only low-THC oil is available through a limited number of licensed dispensaries.
How many people are registered for the low-THC oil program in Georgia?
Approximately 13,000 Georgians are currently registered to participate in the low-THC oil program.
What changes are being proposed to the cannabis laws in Georgia?
Lawmakers are considering various regulatory changes, including proposals to legalize recreational marijuana, expand access to medical marijuana, and impose stricter regulations on hemp products, including banning THC-infused drinks.
What are the concerns regarding high-THC products?
Some parents are concerned about the safety of high-THC products, particularly regarding their underage children obtaining cannabis products illegally. This concern is influencing discussions around regulatory measures.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Georgia Veterans Advocate for Medical Cannabis Access
Additional Resources
- Atlanta News First
- Google Search: Georgia medical cannabis regulations
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Wikipedia: Cannabis in Georgia
- AJC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cannabis
- The Atlanta Voice
- Google News: Georgia hemp products regulation
- Axios
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
