Georgia has implemented a new set of rules and regulations for its hemp industry, bringing significant changes as part of the Georgia Hemp Farming Act. Effective from Tuesday, these regulations include a ban on hemp food products and impose age restrictions for those under 21. This legislative update, rooted in S.B. 494 signed in April, aims to enhance safety measures across the entire supply chain, affecting growers, processors, and retailers alike.

Governor Brian Kemp expressed gratitude to the General Assembly for passing the legislation, emphasising the importance of safeguarding Georgia’s youth and communities as the hemp industry evolves. In line with federal guidelines, hemp is defined as a cannabis plant containing less than 0.3% of delta-9 THC, distinguishing it from marijuana, which has a higher THC concentration. Notably, these changes do not impact Georgia’s medical marijuana programme.

Key alterations include making it illegal for individuals under 21 to purchase hemp products, with violations resulting in misdemeanours and fines up to $500. The ban extends to hemp food products like baked goods, although gummies remain legal. The regulations also prohibit hemp beverages containing alcohol and place explicit limits on THC-A products, aligning state law with federal standards.

Despite these new restrictions, recreational marijuana remains unlawful in Georgia, while consumable hemp products such as tinctures, gummies, and non-alcoholic beverages continue to be permitted. Cannabinoids like delta-8 and delta-10, along with synthetic varieties, remain unregulated. Additionally, Georgia residents can legally purchase hemp products from online retailers in other states.

As the industry adjusts to these changes, further updates are expected. Considerations are underway regarding regulations for labelling, packaging, and advertising hemp products, as well as serving size limits for delta-9 THC hemp products, which may also influence topical products like lotions. These potential modifications underscore the dynamic nature of Georgia’s hemp legislation as it seeks to balance industry growth with consumer safety.

Georgia’s updated hemp regulations bring big changes aimed at keeping people, especially the youth, safe while the industry continues to grow. With new rules like age restrictions and product bans, the focus is now on striking a balance between innovation and public safety.

Source: WABE