New Hemp Laws in Georgia: What Retailers and Consumers Need to Know

1 October 2024

Georgia has enacted the Hemp Farming Act, signaling a notable change in the state's stance on marijuana laws. This new law introduces age restrictions, prohibiting individuals under 21 from purchasing, selling, or possessing hemp-based consumable products. Additionally, it mandates that retailers, wholesalers, and manufacturers secure appropriate licenses to operate legally. Governor Brian Kemp, Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, and Department of Public Safety Commissioner Colonel William W. Hitchens III have voiced their approval, emphasizing the legislation's importance in protecting minors and bolstering public safety.

Approved by the Georgia General Assembly in March, this legislation addresses safety concerns that arose following the 2018 federal approval of hemp cultivation. Previously, products such as hemp oils, gummies, and beverages were sold with minimal oversight, raising questions about their quality and potential risks to consumers. By establishing strict age restrictions and licensing requirements, the law aims to limit access to unregulated items and uphold safety standards.

The new regulations are poised to have a significant impact on Georgia’s hemp industry. Businesses will likely face increased operational expenses to align with the stricter guidelines, while casual users may find it more difficult to obtain hemp products. Medical cannabis patients enrolled in Georgia’s Low-THC Oil registry, however, will not be affected. To enforce the law, the Department of Public Safety will implement measures such as traffic monitoring. Experts suggest that businesses capable of adapting to these regulatory changes may gain a competitive advantage, potentially leading to market consolidation within the state’s hemp and cannabis sectors.