Hemp Oil and Medical Marijuana Laws in Georgia

With the legalization of marijuana in some states and the rise of the cannabis oil industry, it is important to know what you are allowed to do in Georgia. Illegal substance use is a serious crime and could have significant consequences to you if convicted. Therefore, it is vital that you understand Georgia Hemp Oil Laws and how they apply to you.

Hemp Oils and Their Legality in Georgia:

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating compound that is used in both marijuana and hemp. It is known for its health benefits, but people use it for other reasons as well. Most CBD products are either oil-based or topically applied to the skin.

The problem with CBD products arises when they have tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in them. THC is the chemical compound that is responsible for creating the feeling of being high.

CBD oil that is derived from hemp is legal in all 50 states. CBD hemp oil contains little to no THC. It is available to everyone in Georgia without a prescription.

In sum, CBD/hemp oil products are legal in Georgia. The products become illegal once they contain more than 5% THC. As we all know, possession of marijuana is illegal in Georgia.

Is Medical Marijuana Legal in Georgia?

While some states have legalized medical marijuana, Georgia's statute is limited. In 2015, Georgia implemented a medical marijuana law called “Haleigh's Hope Act” that allows people with serious conditions to possess up to 20 ounces of cannabis oil. However, it cannot contain more than 5% THC.

Georgia considers Cancer, Crohn's disease, Mitochondrial disease, Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Seizure disorders and Sickle cell disease to be serious conditions.

In 2017 the Georgia General Assembly added AIDS, Alzheimer's diseases, Autism, Epidermolysis, Bullosa, Peripheral neuropathy and Tourette's syndrome to the list of conditions where people are allowed Cannabis oil.

There are roughly 1700 patients that are registered for medical cannabis in Georgia. People must register with the Georgia Department of Health to legally obtain marijuana.

How Can This Affect You?

Even if you are legally taking medical marijuana or other substances that does not mean it could not pose a problem in certain circumstances. The reason it can be a problem is that you may test positive to what appears to be marijuana on a drug test.

As a result, a positive screen may affect employment. Drug testing is a routine part of job applications and is mandatory for federal employees.

Additionally, a positive drug test may result in a probation violation for those who are being tested for alcohol or drug usage.

Remember, reliable CBD hemp oil products contain much less THC than marijuana. However, regular use of CBD could result in a positive drug test.

If you are taking medical marijuana or using CBD oil that has resulted in you testing positive for a drug test, contact the Law Office of Richard Lawson immediately. Our attorneys have over 50 combined years of criminal defense experience. Remember a charge is not the same as a conviction! Call us today.