Ever since the federal legalization of industrial hemp in 2014, Georgia has adopted regulations aligned with the US Department of Agriculture. Currently, growers benefit from the expanding hemp market, although the laws regarding its production, sale, and distribution still make it hard for small companies to invest in the growth of the herb.
For anyone seeking information about the ground rules for hemp flower in Georgia, this guide is certainly a good place to start.
Key Takeaways
- Hemp is legal in Georgia as long as it contains no more than 0.3% THC.
- Smoking hemp in public is illegal in Georgia due to the inability to field-test the THC content on the spot. This law aims to prevent confusion between hemp and marijuana.
- There is a strong community effort in Georgia to educate the public about the benefits of hemp and to make its consumption more accessible.
Is Hemp Legal in Georgia?
Yes, hemp is legal in Georgia. Georgia's hemp laws align with the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalizes hemp with no more than 0.3% THC content. THC is the high-inducing compound in cannabis.
Specifically, the rules governing hemp cultivation and production in Georgia are contained in the Georgia Hemp Farming Act (O.C.G.A. § 2-23-1). Key sections and definitions in this legislation include:
Definitions:
“Federally defined THC level for hemp” means a delta-9-THC concentration of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis, or as defined in 7 U.S.C. Section 1639o, whichever is greater.
“Hemp” means the Cannabis sativa L. plant and any part of such plant, including the seeds thereof and all derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and salts of isomers, whether growing or not, with the federally defined THC level for hemp or a lower level.
“Hemp products” means all products with the federally defined THC level for hemp derived from, or made by, processing hemp plants or plant parts that are prepared in a form available for legal commercial sale, but not including food products infused with THC unless approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration.
“THC” means tetrahydrocannabinol, tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, or a combination of tetrahydrocannabinol and tetrahydrocannabinolic acid.
Hemp laws are in a constant state of flux, so it's advisable to stay informed. Georgia may have decriminalized small amounts of weed (in selected cities), but still maintains a tight leash on this product.
Can You Smoke Hemp Publicly?
Like most states, smoking hemp publicly is illegal in Georgia. The reason behind this is the lack of a field test to check the THC content in smokable hemp. Thus, Georgia bans the public smoking of hemp to avoid confusion with marijuana.
If you get caught smoking hemp in a public area, you may face legal sanctions. For starters, the suspected contraband will be sent to the lab for tests at your cost. For this reason, we suggest you avoid smoking publicly.
Best Hemp Stores in Georgia
Discover the finest selection of hemp products in Georgia with Botany Farms! Our commitment to quality ensures that every item we offer contains no more than 0.3% THC, aligning with both federal and Georgia's legal standards.
Whether you're seeking the therapeutic benefits of CBD or looking to explore the diverse range of hemp-derived products, we've got you covered. Our online store makes it easy to find exactly what you need, delivered directly to your doorstep. Experience the best in hemp with Botany Farms today. Shop now at Botany Farms and join our community in embracing the natural benefits of hemp.