Is Weed Legal in Georgia?

Medical Cannabis Program

The medical cannabis program in Georgia was established in 2015 with the passage of HB 1, also known as the Haleigh's Hope Act. This legislation allowed for the legal use of low-THC cannabis oil for patients suffering from specific medical conditions. The program has since evolved, allowing for the cultivation and dispensing of medical cannabis products within the state.

Qualifying Conditions

• Cancer
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Parkinson's Disease
• Seizure disorders, including epilepsy
• Chronic pain
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• HIV/AIDS
• ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
• Intractable pain
• Terminal illness
• Any other condition determined by a physician to be debilitating

How to Get a Medical Card

1. See a licensed physician who is registered with the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) and can recommend medical cannabis.
2. Apply to the Georgia Department of Public Health's medical cannabis registry.
3. Pay an application fee of approximately $25.
4. Receive your medical cannabis card, typically within 14 days of application approval.

Card Validity & Renewal

Medical cannabis cards in Georgia are valid for two years from the date of issuance. To renew, patients must reapply through the DPH, which includes submitting a new physician recommendation and paying the renewal fee of approximately $25. The renewal process can take up to 14 days.

Purchase & Possession Limits

Registered medical cannabis patients in Georgia are allowed to possess up to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC oil, which must contain no more than 5% THC. Patients can purchase cannabis oil from licensed dispensaries, but there are currently no specific limits on the amount that can be purchased at one time, as long as it does not exceed the possession limit.

Allowed Forms

In Georgia, the allowed forms of medical cannabis include low-THC oil, which is defined as oil that contains no more than 5% THC. Other forms such as flower, edibles, concentrates, and topicals are not currently permitted under the state's medical cannabis laws.

Where to Buy

Medical cannabis can be purchased at licensed dispensaries throughout Georgia. As of now, there are approximately 6 licensed dispensaries operating in the state. Patients can locate dispensaries through the Georgia Department of Public Health's website or by contacting local health departments for more information.

Recreational Status

Recreational use of cannabis remains illegal in Georgia. Possession of less than one ounce of cannabis can result in a misdemeanor charge, which may include penalties such as a fine of up to $1,000 and/or up to 12 months in jail. Possession of larger amounts can lead to felony charges, with more severe penalties.

Future Outlook

As of October 2023, there are no significant pending legislation or ballot measures specifically aimed at legalizing recreational cannabis use in Georgia. However, discussions around cannabis reform continue, and public opinion appears to be shifting towards a more favorable view of legalization. Advocacy groups are actively working to promote changes in the law, but any potential changes remain uncertain at this time.