The southern state of Georgia is joining the medical marijuana movement by allowing the first sales of cannabis for medical purposes. Patients in Georgia had been waiting for 8 years before they could legally purchase medical marijuana. While the possession and use of cannabis oil has been legal in the state, there were no legal places to buy it until now.
However, there are some limitations in the system. Only six producers are allowed to cultivate and the cannabis oil produced must have low levels of THC. Additionally, two universities will be involved in the production and research of medical marijuana. Currently, only two companies have been licensed to grow, manufacture, and sell medical marijuana in Georgia.
Earlier this year, Georgia rejected a bill that would have expanded the medical marijuana program to include more business opportunities and regulate delta-8 products. Following the rejection, nine companies filed lawsuits after losing bids for licenses. The bill would have also regulated CBD products derived from hemp.
With only five licensed producers and dispensaries, and the requirement for vertical integration, the supply of medical marijuana is expected to be limited. It remains to be seen how long it will take for the program to expand and meet the demand for medical marijuana in Georgia.
