As the Hemp industry evolves in Georgia, new regulations are constantly shaping what consumers can expect on store shelves. Recently, the Georgia Department of Agriculture proposed amendments that would set caps (limits) on the milligrams per serving for Hemp-derived edibles, such as gummies and beverages. These proposed amendments are currently in the comment phase, but they are expected to go into effect regardless of public input. Here’s what these upcoming changes mean for the consumers who’ve been finding help with Hemp-derived products and how this aligns with the previous legislation Senate Bill 494 (S.B. 494).

What Are the Proposed Amendments?

The new amendments aim to place caps on the amount of THC ∆9 contained in Hemp-derived edibles, including individual gummy pieces, drinks, and other consumables. These limits are intended to standardize serving sizes and restrict higher-dose products.

Key Points in the Proposed Amendments:

• 40-32-5-.06 Serving Sizes and Serving Limits:
• (1) Maximum Serving Sizes and Serving Limits. Consumable hemp products in final packaged form shall not contain an amount of total delta-9-THC in excess of the limits prescribed herein.
• (a) A consumable hemp product in the form of a gummy shall not contain more than:
• 10 milligrams of total delta-9-THC per serving; and 150 milligrams of total delta-9-THC per package.
• (b) A consumable hemp product in the form of a beverage shall not contain more than 5 milligrams of total delta-9-THC per serving nor exceed one single serving per container. A single serving of a consumable hemp product in the form of a beverage shall be 12 fluid ounces.
• (c) A consumable hemp product intended for topical application shall not contain more than 1,000 milligrams of total delta-9-THC per package.
• (d) A consumable hemp product in the form of a tincture shall not contain more than 1 milligram of total delta-9-THC per serving nor exceed 10 fluid ounces per container. A single serving of a consumable hemp product in the form of a tincture shall be 2 fluid ounces.

Why Are These Limits Being Introduced?

The Georgia Department of Agriculture’s proposed caps on Hemp-derived THC ∆9 potencies in edibles are aimed at creating consistency and minimizing the risk of over-consumption. This would set a standard across the industry, which proponents argue improves product safety. However, for Hemp consumers who rely on higher doses, this could mean reduced access to effective options, impacting wellness routines and potentially increasing costs.

The Connection to Senate Bill 494

This push toward tighter regulations on Hemp products follows recent legislation like S.B. 494, which introduced additional restrictions on Georgia’s cannabis industry. S.B. 494 imposed significant limits on Hemp agriculture, Hemp manufacturing and Hemp retail businesses. These amendments tighten the licensing process and create more challenges for retailers and producers in the state. Combined with the new amendments, these regulations continue to impact the accessibility and variety of Hemp products in Georgia, particularly affecting those who rely on Federally Legal Hemp-derived products for higher potency options.

Key Restrictions from S.B. 494:

• Fewer High-Potency Options: This legislation has already contributed to fewer high-potency options on the market by simply making it prohibited to retail any of the plant matter and leaves from Hemp, as well as any form of edible that is not gelatin-based like chocolate, honey and caramels. This makes the upcoming milligram caps an additional barrier for consumers who benefit from stronger Hemp-derived products.

How Could This Impact You as a CBD Consumer?

If the new amendments go into effect, you may notice several changes in the products available at your local Hemp dispensary, including Alpine Dispensary in Helen, GA:

• Reduced Potency Choices: With new milligram caps, high-dose Hemp derived edibles may no longer be available in Georgia, requiring consumers to purchase more servings or try alternative methods to get the desired effect. Imagine going to the grocery store or pharmacy and being only able to purchase one strength of Ibuprofen or even seeing only one Alcohol % by Volume in your beer selection. We’ll admit these industries do not face anywhere near the struggles and the limitations the Hemp Industry faces.
• Increased Costs: If you need to buy more servings to achieve the same potency, it could result in higher spending on Hemp derived products.
• Limited Product Variety: Brands may discontinue certain products rather than undergo reformulation, which could lead to fewer Hemp-derived options overall.

What’s Next?

While the amendments are still in the comment phase, they’re expected to pass. At Alpine Dispensary, we’re staying on top of these developments and will adapt to the regulations to continue offering safe, effective products. We’re here to help you navigate these changes, answer your questions and recommend products that meet your wellness needs even as the regulations shift.

Staying Informed with Alpine Dispensary

We believe in keeping our community informed about important legislative updates. If you have questions about how these changes could impact your CBD and THC choices, visit Alpine Dispensary in Helen, GA. Our staff is committed to helping you understand the evolving regulatory landscape and finding a solution that works for you.