As of the start of this month, new restrictions on hemp products manufactured and sold in Georgia have come into effect.
Like many other states, Georgia has been grappling with the proliferation of intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoid products, which have been available throughout the state with little oversight as to who is accessing them, or the quality of such products.
Back in March this year, the state’s General Assembly passed the Georgia Hemp Farming Act, which among other things makes it a crime to sell consumable hemp products to those under the age of 21. Additionally, it requires consumable hemp retailers, wholesalers, and manufacturers to have a license to operate in the state.
“Consumable hemp products are dangerous to minors and unregulated hemp products are a danger to all Georgians,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Knowing these dangers, I want consumers to be aware of these new laws and know that all law enforcement officers in the State will be enforcing them starting October 1st”
The Georgia Hemp Farming Act does not impact Georgia’s medical cannabis program, which only allows for low-THC oil products. Low-THC oil is defined in Georgia as an oil that contains no more than 5 percent by weight of tetrahydrocannabinol and an amount of cannabinol (CBN) equal to or greater than the amount of THC. It authorizes the legal possession of up to 20 fluid ounces by patients listed on the Registry with an active card status.
While the majority of the Hemp Farming Act went into effect on October 1, some proposed Department of Agriculture rules regarding hemp are yet to be implemented. The Department has carried out a public consultation on its proposed rules, which closed early last month.
One of the proposed rules yet to be finalized stipulates a maximum serving size and serving limit for total delta-9-THC concentration in consumable hemp gummy products; being 10 milligrams and 150 milligrams respectively. There are also proposed limits for beverages, tinctures and topical products.
“Our team at the Georgia Department of Agriculture was proud to work with Governor Kemp, the General Assembly, and other Law Enforcement Agencies from across the state to protect Georgia consumers and children by establishing much-needed guardrails for consumable hemp products in our state,” said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper.
Over a 90-day period following October 1st, the Department intends to focus on educating consumers and market participants on the new law and will use its enforcement discretion.
