Georgia Governor Brian Kemp signed SB 220, expanding the state’s medical cannabis program with new patient rules, a new THC limit, and vaping access for patients 21 and older.

12 May 2026

Georgia has made its largest change in years to its medical cannabis program. Gov. Brian Kemp signed Senate Bill 220, known as the “Putting Georgia’s Patients First Act.” The law renames the state’s “low THC oil” program as a medical cannabis program. It is set to take effect July 1, 2026, since the bill does not list a separate start date and Georgia law sets July 1 for most acts approved before July 1.

The change is not just a new name. It expands who may qualify, changes THC limits, and sets new rules for cards and use. For patients, the biggest shift may be access. The law adds lupus to the list of covered health needs.

It also broadens access for cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and some brain and nerve disorders. In some cases, it removes old limits tied to “severe” or “end-stage” disease. That appears to help patients who did not fit the old rules.

Patients will also see changes to their cards. Medical cannabis cards will last five years. Most patients will still need a doctor to sign off each year. People with incurable or lasting health issues will not need that yearly signoff.

Patients and caregivers may use a digital card, a paper card, or both. That may make the system easier for some patients. It may not solve access issues for those without steady care or nearby doctors.

The law also drops Georgia’s 5% THC cap. Registered patients may now possess products with up to 12,000 milligrams of THC in total. Each package may hold no more than 1,200 milligrams. Products must stay in approved, labeled containers.

That may give patients more choice in dose and product type. It also puts more weight on clear labels and safe storage at home. The law does not allow infused cookies, candies, or similar food products. That limit may matter for patients who prefer edibles.

Georgia will also allow some use of vaporized medical cannabis. The law still bars smoking or burning cannabis. Vaping is not allowed for anyone age 21 or younger. It is also barred in public places.

The state Department of Public Health must set rules by Jan. 1, 2027. Until then, patients and firms may need to wait for more detail. Those rules are likely to shape how the law works in day-to-day life.

For adult-use cannabis consumers, the law does not change much. Georgia has not legalized recreational cannabis. The new law applies to registered patients, caregivers, licensed firms, and others in the medical program. It does not create a retail market for all adults.

For cannabis firms, the law may widen the medical market. But the market is still narrow and state controlled. Firms may plan products around THC milligrams, not just a 5% cap. They also face strict limits on packs, ads, and health claims.

The measure passed with broad support at the Capitol. The Senate approved it 38-14, and the House passed it 144-21. Kemp has cast the bill as a limited medical change. He has said medical access does not have to lead to adult-use sales.

The next test may come outside the Capitol. Patients will need doctors, clear rules, and products they can afford. Businesses will need to fit inside a tightly drawn system. For Georgia consumers, the law widens medical access, but leaves adult use off the table.