Georgia’s New Cannabis Rules: What They Mean for Delta-9 THC

Georgia's New Cannabis Rules: What They Mean for Delta-9 THC

As Georgia prepares to implement new regulations on its legal hemp industry, significant changes are on the horizon for delta-9 THC products. These regulations aim to address the burgeoning market of cannabis-infused products and impose stricter controls on their production and sale. This article delves into the specifics of the new rules, the potential legal challenges they might face, and the implications for businesses operating in the state.

New Regulations for Delta-9 THC

The new Georgia law, set to take effect on October 1, 2024, introduces comprehensive rules for the state’s legal hemp industry. These include establishing a legal purchase age of 21, creating testing and registration requirements, and setting strict caps on the amount of delta-9 THC allowed in products.

  • Age Limit and Testing: Individuals must be at least 21 years old to purchase delta-9 THC products. Additionally, all products will undergo testing to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
  • THC Caps on Products:
    • Gummies: Limited to a maximum of 10mg of delta-9 THC per serving and 150mg per package.
    • Beverages: Capped at 5mg of delta-9 THC per serving, with each container defined as a single serving not exceeding 12 ounces.
    • Topicals: Creams and lotions cannot contain more than 1,000mg of delta-9 THC per package.
    • Tinctures: Oils are restricted to 1mg of delta-9 THC per serving, with a maximum container size of 10 fluid ounces.
  • Prohibition of Certain Products: The sale of hemp “flower” and food products infused with delta-9 THC, such as chocolates, will be prohibited under the new law.

Potential Legal Challenges

The proposed regulations could be subject to legal scrutiny. Thomas Church, an Atlanta attorney representing CBD businesses, notes potential conflicts between Georgia’s law and federal legislation, which legalised hemp CBD. This discrepancy could create legal loopholes for other cannabinoid products like CBD, CBG, and delta-8.

Implications for Businesses

The new rules require companies to adjust their product formulations and packaging within a short timeframe to comply with the law. Joe Salome, co-founder of the Georgia Hemp Company, foresees challenges for businesses, especially those out-of-state, who may choose to stop distributing products to Georgia rather than adapt to the new requirements.

  • Business Adjustments: Companies will need to reformulate products to meet the THC caps and modify labelling to align with the new standards.
  • Market Opportunities: Despite the challenges, Salome suggests that the regulations could reduce legal ambiguities and attract larger retailers, such as major grocery chains and sports venues, to enter the market.

Industry Perspectives and Market Effects

The impending regulations are expected to have a mixed impact on the market. While some businesses may struggle to comply, others view the changes as an opportunity to clarify legal uncertainties and expand market reach. As Congress works on a new Farm Bill, further regulatory adjustments at the federal level could also have significant ramifications for Georgia’s hemp industry.Source: Axios

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