Marijuana remains illegal in Georgia, and despite this, many residents continue to use it. While a few cities have made efforts to decriminalize marijuana for recreational use locally, possessing over an ounce of marijuana remains an offense across the state. Attempts to legalize marijuana for both recreational and medicinal purposes have faced repeated rejection.
In 2019, Governor Brian P. Kemp signed a medical marijuana bill into law, allowing select companies to manufacture low-THC oil with less than 5% THC by weight in Georgia. Another bill in 2021 expanded these provisions to include low-THC products like medical cannabis extracts. These conservative medical marijuana laws were designed to offer relief to ailing residents.
Haleigh's Hope Act
Georgia House Bill 1, known as Haleigh's Hope Act, was signed into law on April 16, 2015. This act established legal provisions for the possession of low-THC oil under specific circumstances. Eligible patients can legally possess up to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC oil, providing some relief for individuals with qualifying medical conditions.
The potential benefits of legalizing marijuana in Georgia are significant. Revenue generated from sales tax on commercial cannabis could amount to millions of dollars, which could be allocated to critical areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The legalization of marijuana has the potential to create high-profile job opportunities across various sectors, driving economic growth in the state.
Understanding Marijuana-Related Crimes in Georgia
Georgia ranks 6th in the United States for marijuana arrests and drug charges. According to FBI arrest statistics, marijuana possession accounts for nearly 100% of all marijuana-related arrests in the state. These statistics indicate that while marijuana remains illegal, it continues to be associated with criminal activity in Georgia. The number of marijuana-related arrests in the state has shown a slight increase between 2016 and 2022.
Obtaining a Medical Marijuana Card in Georgia
While marijuana is illegal in Georgia, registered patients with valid low-THC oil registry cards are allowed to possess up to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC oil. However, such prescriptions are limited and typically reserved for critically ill individuals.
Qualifying medical conditions for a Georgia low-THC registry card include cancer, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, seizure disorders, and epilepsy. Patients can apply for these cards through their eligible physician, and they are valid for two years from the date of issuance.
To qualify for a low-THC registry card, individuals must be adults, legal guardians of adults, or parents/legal guardians of minors who have been Georgia residents for at least one year with an eligible medical condition.
Georgia's Marijuana Policy History
Georgia's stance on marijuana policy reform lags behind, as the state still enforces penalties for cannabis possession. Statutorily, all forms of marijuana possession or sale remain illegal. However, registered patients with valid low-THC oil registry cards can legally possess low-THC oil containing no more than 5% THC by weight.
Legislation is currently pending in Georgia to address the legalization and regulation of marijuana use, possession, and retail sale. Legislators are working on improving the state's strict marijuana laws, with the possibility of allowing adults to legally purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries and expunge certain past marijuana convictions.
Summary
The landscape of marijuana laws in Georgia is evolving. While marijuana remains illegal for recreational use, low-THC oil offers limited relief for some patients. As discussions around marijuana policy reform continue, it's crucial to explore the option of medical marijuana, which provides a regulated and reliable alternative for individuals seeking therapeutic relief.
Obtaining a medical marijuana card ensures legal access to specialized treatments and offers a pathway to improving your well-being. Stay informed about the latest developments in Georgia's marijuana laws to make informed decisions regarding your healthcare and legal compliance.
Get Ready for Medical Marijuana in Georgia
Medical cannabis is potentially beneficial for those who struggle with substance misuse. Even though this is still being investigated, it might be an affordable, safe option for people to work toward recovery.
Despite some delays, Georgia will soon have access to medical marijuana! To give patients the relief they deserve, we hope Georgia dispensaries should open their doors in 2023.
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 cannabis 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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