Cannabis Business in Georgia

• Possession of marijuana is illegal in Georgia, except for Low THC Oil under specific conditions. The law allows qualified individuals to possess up to 20 fluid ounces of Low THC Oil. Any other form of marijuana remains illegal under state and federal law.

• Only individuals listed on the Low THC Oil Registry and possessing an active card can legally obtain Low THC Oil. There are two categories of individuals who can apply: patients and caregivers.

• Patients must be adults residing in Georgia and diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition.

• Caregivers can be: legal guardians of adults with qualifying conditions, or parents/guardians/legal custodians of minors with qualifying conditions.

• A licensed Georgia physician must certify both patients and caregivers to access Low THC Oil. This certification is the only legal way to obtain Low THC Oil in Georgia.

Licenses for Cannabis-Touching Businesses in Georgia

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission is responsible for licensing businesses involved in the production and dispensing of Low THC Oil in the state. The commission oversee three main license types: Class 1 and Class 2 Production Licenses, and the Dispensing License, which authorized the sale of Low THC Oil to registered patients.

The application period for Class 1 and Class 2 Production Licenses closed on January 27, 2021, with no announced plans for future application windows. The licensing process followed a Competitive Application Request for Proposals (RFP) format, reflecting a rigorous evaluation where applicants demonstrated their qualifications and readiness to operate a cannabis business. For those considering entering the market, purchasing an existing cannabis business for sale may be an option worth exploring.

Comprehensive application materials were required for both production licenses, including instructions, mandatory requirements, and questionnaires addressing various business details. These covered ownership profiles, facility information, financial disclosures, ownership structure, employment plans, local government endorsements, production strategies, seed-to-sale tracking, and business security measures.

The Dispensing License plays a key role in the cannabis business landscape by enabling the legal sale of Low THC Oil to registered patients. While not subject to the same application period, it was critical for businesses aiming to enter the cannabis market. The commission’s regulatory oversight helped ensure that Georgia’s cannabis business operations met the state's legal and safety standards.

Cannabis Supporting Businesses in Georgia

In Georgia, cannabis supporting businesses provides essential services to the cannabis industry, assisting with compliance, operations, and business growth. These companies do not directly handle cannabis but plays a crucial role in supporting licensed businesses involved in the production and sale of Low THC Oil. Below is an overview of the key types of supporting businesses in Georgia:

• Compliance Specialists: Legal experts guide cannabis businesses through state regulations, including licensing and operational requirements, to help them navigate legal complexities.
• Cannabis Accounting Services: Accountants specializing in the industry assist with financial compliance, tax management, and navigating regulations like IRS Section 280E.
• Security Services: Security firms provide surveillance, secure transportation, and facility protection to ensure compliance with safety requirements.
• Cannabis Banking Solutions: Financial institutions offer services tailored to the cannabis industry, handling transactions, payroll, and other banking needs.
• Insurance Solutions: Providers offer coverage designed for the cannabis industry, addressing risks such as product liability, property damage, and operational disruptions.
• Cannabis Real Estate Advisors: Real estate professionals assist businesses in finding compliant properties for cultivation, production, or dispensing, including dispensaries in Georgia.
• POS Solutions: Point-of-sale companies provide technology for sales processing, inventory tracking, and compliance management specific to cannabis operations.
• Packaging Providers: Companies ensure cannabis products meet safety and labeling requirements through compliant packaging solutions.
• Marketing Services: Agencies promote cannabis businesses while adhering to state advertising regulations to help them gain a competitive edge.
• Transportation Services: Logistics firms offer secure delivery to facilitate the compliant movement of cannabis products between businesses.

These supporting businesses play a vital role in Georgia’s cannabis industry, helping licensed operators optimize their operations and meet regulatory standards.