Is CBD Legal in Atlanta, Georgia? Here’s What You Need to Know

The use of cannabidiol (CBD) and locals’ interest in it is growing in Atlanta, Georgia. An NCBI study conducted research across six metropolitan areas in the US, one of them being Atlanta. It found that over 50% of adults reported ever use of CBD while 32% cited current use. Most consumers perceived it to be safe and effective for pain management, sleep, and relaxation.

This growing interest has prompted questions about its legality in different states, including Georgia. As these products become increasingly popular for their potential health benefits, it’s important to understand the legal framework governing their sale and use.

Understanding CBD and Its Legal Status

It is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant. This means that it does not produce the “high,” which is usually associated with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another prominent cannabis compound. This distinction is important because its legality largely depends on its THC content and the source plant—hemp or marijuana.

In Atlanta, as in the rest of Georgia, hemp-derived cannabidiol products with less than 0.3% THC are legal. This aligns with the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and its derivatives at the federal level. However, state regulations add additional layers of oversight and compliance requirements.

Georgia’s Specific Laws on CBD

Georgia has its own guidelines regarding the production, sale, and possession of CBD. The Georgia Hemp Farming Act of 2019 allowed farmers to grow hemp and manufacturers to produce hemp-derived items, including CBD products. However, they had to comply with federal THC limits and undergo testing to ensure they met quality standards.

The new Senate Bill 494, enacted into law on April 30, 2024, changes the legal landscape of this substance. With effect from October 1, 2024, this law puts age restrictions on the sale, purchase, and possession of CBD. Currently, it cannot be sold or possessed by someone under 21 years of age. Governor Kemp has said that this regulation is pretty straightforward and, therefore, will be strictly enforced.

Under the new law, hemp-derived food products, even those with high CBD and low THC, such as baked goods, chocolate, or cookies, are banned. Since gummies are not considered to be food items, they are still legal in Atlanta, Georgia. Moreover, hemp beverages that also contain some amount of alcohol are now illegal.

What remains legal are hemp products in the form of gummies, vapes, tinctures, and beverages (without alcohol). However, cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-10 still remain unregulated in the city.

Availability of CBD in Atlanta

The new law that took effect on October 1, 2024, will eliminate several products from the shelves of cannabis stores. However, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution states that many Georgians are looking for alternatives due to new regulations.

Data shows that the number of shops selling these alternatives has already increased to 1300 in Metro Atlanta alone. However, these are spiked edibles and vapes that can be harmful.

Therefore, it is important that consumers find the right and safe products for consumption. Products such as Natural Life CBD, Kratom, Kava, etc., for example, come with appropriate labeling. Moreover, the staff can help you pick the right products that are legal to use and effective at addressing your health issues.

While the new law bans several products, it does not change anything in the medical marijuana program. Under this program, patients registered for medical marijuana use can consume oil with a higher concentration of CBD and THC. People can register under this program to get their medical cards for purchasing these products.

Currently, there are around 13,000 cardholders in Georgia. The number has been cited to be 30,000 for the past several years. However, it is miscount inflated. As stated by AJC Politics, health officials said the number also included those whose cards have expired or are no longer alive.

What to Keep in Mind as a Consumer

Even though some hemp-derived CBD products are legal, understanding the nuances of Georgia’s laws is important. Products should clearly label their CBD and THC content, and consumers must be aware of the potential for discrepancies in their quality.

Additionally, employers or legal authorities may still test for these substances. In these cases, the use of these substances will still show up in the tests. Therefore, understanding the implications of consuming them is essential for Atlanta employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you buy CBD if you’re under 18 in Atlanta?

There were no age restrictions on the purchase and use of cannabinoids previously. However, the new law passed on April 30, 2024, restricts Atlantians under 21 from purchasing or possessing the substance. Thus, you cannot buy CBD in Atlanta if you are under 18.

Can you travel to the CBD in Georgia?

Yes, you are allowed to travel with CBD products in Georgia as long as they are made from hemp with less than 0.3% THC. However, because state regulations differ, it is important to exercise caution while transporting cannabinoids over state boundaries. When flying, it’s a good idea to review both the local laws and TSA regulations.

Can I use CBD in public places in Atlanta?

Although using CBD in public is not specifically forbidden by law, it is advised to exercise caution. Some CBD products may cause confusion with law authorities because they look like marijuana, which is still illegal in Georgia.

CBD is legal in Atlanta as long as it comes from hemp and complies with state and federal laws. Being aware of the legal environment and buying from reliable merchants ensures that customers can enjoy CBD products legally and securely. Therefore, it is important to do some research at your end and ask questions at the dispensary from where you are buying. This will give you a clear idea of the legality of various CBD products in Atlanta, Georgia.