Georgia Lawmakers Begin In-Depth Review of Medical Cannabis and Hemp Policies Ahead of 2026 Legislative Session

Medical Cannabis and Hemp Products Under Scrutiny as State Prepares for Reform

As Georgia prepares for its 2026 legislative session, medical cannabis and recreational hemp products are poised to take center stage in state policy discussions. Lawmakers have launched a new initiative to examine how the state regulates both substances and whether changes are needed to better serve patients, businesses, and consumers.

House Study Committee Holds First Meeting to Evaluate Georgia’s Cannabis Framework

On July 29, a specially convened House study committee held its inaugural meeting at the state Capitol. Tasked with evaluating the current impact of cannabis consumption across the state, the committee represents a cross-section of stakeholders including legislators, agency officials, healthcare professionals, and members of the public.

This marks the beginning of a four-part hearing series scheduled through October. These meetings will focus on medical research, expert testimony, and a comprehensive comparison of Georgia’s policies to those enacted in other states. The goal is to produce an official report containing actionable recommendations for the upcoming session.

Two Distinct Cannabis Markets Under Review: Medical Cannabis and Hemp-Derived Products

The committee is expected to navigate a complex regulatory landscape involving two separate policy areas: Georgia’s medical cannabis program and its federally regulated hemp market. Medical cannabis is governed by the state’s Access to Medical Cannabis Commission, while hemp-derived products—like CBD oils and THC-infused beverages fall under the federal 2018 Farm Bill and the Georgia Hemp Farming Act.

These dual jurisdictions create regulatory overlap and confusion, particularly when distinguishing between medically approved cannabis and recreational hemp products that often contain similar chemical compounds. The committee aims to address these challenges by clarifying state laws and identifying opportunities for regulatory alignment.

2025 Session Highlights Growing Debate Over Cannabis Policy in Georgia

The urgency behind this legislative review stems from growing interest in cannabis policy during the 2025 session, which marked the tenth anniversary of Haleigh’s Hope Act. Originally passed to legalize the possession of low-THC oil, the Act also launched a statewide licensing and research framework that has slowly expanded over the years.

Despite these milestones, advocates and lawmakers agree that Georgia’s cannabis laws remain limited in scope. Restrictions on available products, dispensary access, and dosage levels continue to hinder patients—many of whom struggle to obtain the full spectrum of relief that cannabis-based treatments can offer.

Georgia’s Medical Cannabis Program Shows Progress but Lags Behind Southern Neighbors

Georgia’s low-THC oil program has experienced consistent growth. As of July 2025, over 33,700 patients are enrolled in the program, alongside 2,300 caregivers and 700 licensed physicians. The majority of patients—more than 75 percent—report chronic conditions like intractable pain and PTSD, while others cite cancer, seizure disorders, or neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s.

However, compared to states like Mississippi and Louisiana, Georgia’s program appears underdeveloped. Both neighboring states have reached enrollment numbers nearing 50,000, despite having smaller populations. This discrepancy has reignited calls for Georgia to reevaluate its eligibility criteria, treatment forms, and dispensary infrastructure.

Legislation Introduced in 2025 Session Failed to Cross the Finish Line

During the last legislative session, at least four bills related to medical cannabis and hemp were introduced, covering issues like licensing reform, THC product regulation, and patient access. However, none successfully passed both the House and Senate before the session adjourned in April.

The failure to pass meaningful reform has increased pressure on lawmakers to act in 2026. Stakeholders across the healthcare, agriculture, and business sectors are urging the state to modernize its approach and close gaps in oversight that could leave patients underserved and businesses without clear legal protections.

Senate Committee to Focus on Recreational Hemp and THC Beverages

In parallel with the House effort, the Georgia Senate has launched its own study committee focused on consumable hemp products particularly THC-infused drinks that are currently available to consumers through retail channels. These products, which often mimic the effects of medical cannabis, exist in a legal gray area due to their classification under federal hemp guidelines.

The Senate Study Committee on Intoxicating Cannabinoids in Consumable Hemp Products will address the safety, labeling, and accessibility of these items. While a public meeting schedule has not yet been released, the committee is expected to play a key role in shaping future legislation around recreational cannabinoids.

Next Hearing Scheduled for August in Augusta as Lawmakers Continue Research

The House committee’s second hearing will take place on August 21 in Augusta, providing a new opportunity for public input and expert analysis. Additional meetings will follow in different locations across the state to ensure broad representation and engagement from Georgia residents.

As lawmakers continue their review, Georgia’s evolving cannabis landscape remains a top issue for medical professionals, patients, and industry advocates alike. Whether 2026 brings substantial policy change will depend largely on the outcomes of these study committees and the political will of legislators to act on their findings.