Georgia Governor Signs Bill to Regulate Hemp Products
Georgia’s governor has approved a new bill focused on the regulation of hemp-derived products and the expansion of the state’s hemp industry.
Details of Senate Bill 494
The bill, known as Senate Bill 494, was signed into law on Tuesday and is set to bring significant changes to Georgia’s hemp sector. Among its provisions, the legislation:
Licensing and Permits
Provides for the issuance of manufacturer licenses, wholesale consumable-hemp permits, and consumable-hemp retail establishment licenses.
Testing Labs Regulation
Requires testing labs to be registered, ensuring quality control and safety standards are met.
Delta-9 THC Redefinition
Closes the “THCA” loophole by redefining delta-9 THC. This action addresses the biosynthetic precursor of THC, which must be heated to be converted into THC.
Age Restrictions
Prohibits the sale of hemp-derived products, including CBD, to individuals under the age of 21.
Legislative Process
The Georgia General Assembly passed Senate Bill 494, also referred to as the Georgia Hemp Farming Act, and forwarded it to Governor Brian Kemp for final approval in April.
Regulatory Landscape
Since the enactment of the 2018 Farm Bill, states like Georgia have had the authority to determine their approach to regulating hemp-derived products. While this legislation legalized hemp, it also led to the emergence of products containing delta-8 THC and other intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids.
With the signing of Senate Bill 494, Georgia takes a significant step towards establishing comprehensive regulations for its hemp industry. The new law aims to ensure consumer safety, promote responsible hemp cultivation, and address concerns surrounding the sale of hemp-derived products to minors. As the state continues to navigate the evolving landscape of hemp regulation, stakeholders will closely monitor the implementation of these new measures.