Atlanta is the epicenter of nightlife in Georgia. From classy cocktail bars to iconic clubs of all kinds, we have it all—well, except one thing. Despite Atlanta’s reputation as a fun-loving party town, Georgia weed laws haven’t gotten the memo and remain pretty buttoned up compared to other states across the country. The actual law of the land can be a bit confusing, so it’s always a good time to examine our current marijuana laws to figure out what’s legal and what’s smoke. And in this case, ironically, you don’t want that smoke. So whether you’re a longtime resident or brushing up on the rule book before a trip to Atlanta, here’s a state of the state on marijuana legalization in Georgia, with all of your questions about cannabis answered.
Is weed legal in Georgia?
No. Atlanta decriminalized weed back in 2017, but that does not make weed legal. When mayor Kasim Reed signed the ordinance, a press release explained “The ordinance does not legalize or decriminalize possession of marijuana—it addresses the disparity in the punishment for possession. Research shows that white and Black Americans use marijuana at similar levels, yet Black Americans are arrested and charged at higher rates.”
Is weed legal anywhere in Georgia?
While recreational weed remains illegal throughout the state, there’s a loophole for getting weed for medicinal use. It is legal for “qualified persons” to possess “up to 20 fluid ounces of low THC oil” in Georgia.
Can I get a prescription? How?
Maybe! You have to be on the statewide registry to legally possess low-THC cannabis oil. There are two forms that must be filled out and sent in: One is a waiver that the applicant and a physician must sign, and the other is a physician certification form, which a doctor fills out. Once the doc submits the form and the state approves, the applicant will be notified that they can purchase a Low-THC Oil Registry Card for $25 from a nearby public health office.
What are the approved conditions?
There are a number of conditions that may help you qualify for medicinal cannabis in Georgia including epilepsy, certain cancers, Tourette’s syndrome, and PTSD. The full list can be found here.
Is there anywhere I can buy medical marijuana in Georgia?
That’s a big nope. According to the state, “The new law does not address how low THC oil is made, purchased or shipped. The law only creates a procedure to ensure qualified persons will be protected from prosecution for having it in their possession. The Georgia Department of Public Health does not prescribe or dispense low THC oil.”
Will my insurance pay for medical marijuana?
No. You’ll need to pay with straight cash (or a credit card to rack up those points).
Is recreational weed coming to Georgia soon… or ever?
While many states across the country are legalizing recreational cannabis, our state still has a long way to go. Atlanta’s “decriminalization” is a small step toward cultural acceptance, adding momentum to the larger statewide fight required for legalization to occur. (Full Story)