Is Weed Legal in Georgia?
Currently, it is illegal to possess or grow marijuana in Georgia. However, if you are a medical patient, you may be allowed to obtain marijuana under certain circumstances.
Medical Marijuana
Previously, Georgia was one of the few states to restrict medical marijuana use, but new legislation passed in January gives the state’s residents access to medical cannabis oil. Currently, a qualified patient can possess 20 fluid ounces of low THC oil.
The law also requires the state Department of Public Health to establish rules governing the issuance of registry cards. In addition, physicians are required to fill out two forms when recommending the use of medical cannabis to patients.
The state’s Low THC Oil Registry program protects qualified patients from criminal prosecution. In order to obtain Low THC Oila registry card, a patient must provide a physician’s certification form. A valid card is issued within fifteen business days.
The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission is responsible for the production and dispensing of low THC oil to patients. The commission appointed members and hired a new executive director in May. In the meantime, the commission is preparing to write recommendations on how to regulate medical marijuana in Georgia.
Cultivating Weed
Unlike many states, Georgia’s marijuana laws do not allow residents to grow weed. However, it is possible to cultivate hemp, which can be used for a variety of purposes.
If you are planning to cultivate weed in Georgia, it’s important to know the rules before you begin. It’s also wise to hire an attorney who specializes in marijuana cultivation. These attorneys know the best defenses for your situation and can help you avoid life-changing penalties.
The penalties for marijuana cultivation in Georgia can be severe. For instance, if you are caught growing marijuana in Atlanta, you could face a hefty fine, a permanent record, probation, drug treatment, community service, and even a suspension of your driving license. You could also be charged with a crime, which could result in a prison sentence.
Low-THC Oil
Despite the legality of low-THC cannabis oil in Georgia, many people are not sure how to go about obtaining it. There are two main factors to consider: the legality of cannabis oil in the state, and the law governing its distribution.
In general, the law is very strict. Adults must be residents of the state for a minimum of one year. Children who have been born in Georgia, but who live in another state, are exempt from the residency requirement.
A physician must certify a patient for a medical cannabis card. The certification must contain information about the patient’s qualifying condition. There are eight approved conditions: autism, asthma, Crohn’s disease, seizure disorders, Tourette’s syndrome, Parkinson’s disease, cancer, and epilepsy.
The law requires that the certification be uploaded to the Georgia Low-THC Oil Registry. The registry is managed by the Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission, which is administratively assigned to the Secretary of State’s Office.
Defining a Possession of Marijuana Charge as a Misdemeanor
Defining a possession of marijuana charge as a misdemeanor involves many factors. First, the type of marijuana that was possessed. Generally, marijuana under 20 grams is classified as a misdemeanor. Those in possession of more than 20 grams are charged with a felony.
Next, the person convicted of the offense must have been aware of the presence of the substance. If the arresting officer does not believe that you were aware of the presence of the drug, you may be denied the right to trial.
If you are convicted of the crime, the court will require you to pay court costs, probationary supervision, and random drug testing. In addition, you will have to complete community service and a diversionary program. If you complete these programs, your charges will be reduced to a non-criminal offense.
Making a Difference by Campaigning For Marijuana Law Reform
Whether you live in Georgia or not, you’ll have the opportunity to make a difference by campaigning for marijuana law reform in your state this year. While a federal legalization scheme would certainly be a step in the right direction, state lawmakers need to take note of public opinion, and make cannabis decriminalization a priority.
In addition to making a difference by campaigning for a marijuana law change, you should also take time to engage your candidates on what they have to offer on this issue. Although marijuana is illegal in the state of Georgia, several of your legislators may be a little friendly towards the weed business. By talking to your candidates, you can find out if their plan is to make the case for cannabis decriminalization or a full-blown cannabis legalization scheme.
