Georgia aims to introduce a bill in the house to strictly regulate Delta 8 THC and other isomers of Hemp. Why would they do this, and how can you help? Let’s dive into the details, and provide you with the power to make a difference...

Georgia has proposed new legislation that seeks to amend the current state code regarding controlled substances and add provisions relating to the possession, manufacture, and sale of delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products – this includes other isomers of THC. The substitute version of House Bill 458 introduces regulations that aim to ensure public safety and prevent the abuse of this substance – says the House of Representatives.

House Bill 458 in the state of Georgia has several sponsors, including Rep. Clay Pirkle [R], Rep. John Corbett [R], Rep. Noel Williams [R], Rep. Trey Rhodes [R], and Rep. Inga Willis [D]. These representatives come from different political parties but have all come together to sponsor this bill, demonstrating bipartisan support for the proposed legislation.

The House bill defines delta-8 THC, and other THC isomers, as a controlled substance and prohibits its possession, sale, and manufacture unless it is done in compliance with the provisions of the bill. This means that individuals and companies who wish to engage in the possession, sale, and manufacture of hemp-containing THC products must adhere to certain regulations.

The substitute version of House Bill 458 allows for the manufacture and sale of THC-containing hemp products as long as they are derived from hemp, contain no more than 0.3% THC, and comply with certain labeling and testing requirements. Manufacturers of THC products must obtain a license from the Georgia Department of Agriculture and comply with safety and quality control measures. Retailers are also required to obtain a license from the Georgia Department of Revenue and are prohibited from selling Hemp THC products to individuals under the age of 21. The proposed legislation establishes penalties for violations of the bill’s provisions, including fines and imprisonment.

Public & Industry Response

House Bill 458 in Georgia has received mixed reactions from the public, with some expressing support for the bill and others in opposition. One citizen who is a business owner in Georgia expressed their strong opposition to the bill, citing potential negative impacts on the hemp and CBD industry in the state, including job losses, economic damage, and risks to public health and safety. They urged lawmakers not to vote the bill forward and to consider the potential consequences carefully.

In contrast, another concerned citizen wrote a letter to their senator proposing measures to protect the hemp industry and consumers in Georgia, including labeling requirements, packaging regulations, and COA availability. They expressed deep concern about the potential impacts of HB458, which could lead to the criminalization of tax-paying small businesses, resulting in significant damage to the state’s economy and employment opportunities. They urged lawmakers to oppose the bill and instead work towards policies that will support economic growth and small businesses in the state. The diverse range of responses to the proposed bill highlights the importance of balancing the interests of different stakeholders and carefully considering the potential consequences of legislative action.

Current Movements from the Public

On March 20th, 2023, a committee meeting was held to allow members of the public to voice their opinions on HB458, a bill that aims to ban Delta-8 and other isomers. The meeting was attended by various individuals and representatives from the Hemp/CBD industry, and it became clear that there was unanimous opposition to the bill due to the significant economic impact it would have on businesses in Georgia.

Many people who attended the meeting expressed their concerns and objections to the bill, citing the detrimental effects it would have on the livelihoods of those in the industry. Despite this, an additional hearing was held on March 21st, 2023, to allow more members of the public to voice their opinions. Despite the second hearing, there were still a large number of people in the industry who went unheard. The frustration and concern among those who are against the bill are palpable, as they feel their voices are not being heard and that the potential impact of this bill on their lives and businesses is not being taken into account.

It is crucial for people to continue expressing their opinions and concerns to their representatives in the Senate Regulated Industries Committee, as their voices can make a difference in the outcome of the bill. We urge everyone affected by this issue to reach out to their senators and let them know how important it is to oppose HB458.

Good News on the Horizon

Inside Scoop – According to Bill Cowsert, a Senator from Georgia, HB458 and HB459 bills have: “Died in committee. It will not pass this year”. This development is a welcome surprise for the hemp industry and a step in the right direction. However, some stakeholders remain cautious as Senator Cowsert’s vague language could raise future concerns.

The fight for a healthy hemp industry is far from over. It’s crucial that those in the industry remain vigilant and continue to support efforts to promote and protect the hemp industry in Georgia. This may include advocating for favorable legislation, joining the GHA, educating the public about the benefits of hemp and hemp-derived products, and supporting local farmers and businesses that are working to grow and distribute these products.

What Can You Do to Help?

If you’re concerned about the proposed bills in Georgia and other states that threaten the legal status of hemp-derived products, there are steps you can take to help keep them from becoming law. One organization that is actively fighting against these bills is the Georgia Healthy Alternatives Association (GHA).

GHA is dedicated to stopping the Healthy Alternatives Ban Bill and protecting Georgians’ rights to healthy alternative products. According to their website, HB458 is one of the most dangerous bills Georgia has seen when it comes to the overregulation of healthy alternatives. These bills would ban hundreds of legal products in Georgia and destroy thousands of jobs and small businesses overnight.

To help support their efforts, you can donate to GHA or become a member. All donations and membership fees go towards funding their team of lobbyists, grassroots advocates, and PR professionals who are working tirelessly to keep Big Government out of YOUR health options. Aside from supporting organizations like GHA, you can also contact your local representatives and let them know your concerns about these bills. By raising awareness and expressing your opposition to these measures, you can help make a difference in protecting the future of the hemp industry and your access to healthy alternatives.

Express Your Concerns

The recent developments in HB458 could potentially cripple the hemp/CBD industry and cost Georgia tens of thousands of jobs, billions in economic impact, and put the lives of those who depend on these products at risk, there is something you can do. You can reach out to the members of the Senate Regulated Industries Committee and respectfully let them know you are in direct opposition to HB458.

MORE INFO: Navigate to the Georgia Senate website for more contact information on the topic. Click here to learn more.

Chairman Bill Cowsert (R-Athens), Sen. Carden Summers (R-Cordele), President Pro. Tem. John Kennedy (R-Macon), Sen. John Albers (R-Roswell), Sen. Tonya Anderson (D-Lithonia), Sen. Matt Brass (R-Newnan), Sen. Gloria Butler (D-Stone Mountain), Sen. Greg Dolezal (R-Cumming), Sen. Frank Ginn (R-Danielsville), Majority Leader Steve Gooch (R-Dahlonega), Sen. Ed Harbison (D-Columbus), Sen. David Lucas (D-Macon), and Sen. Michael Rhett (D-Marietta) are the committee members you can contact.

You can call, email or text them, urging them not to vote this bill forward. It is essential to be polite and humble when you reach out to them. Every individual whose health is related to this hemp-related product must call and show how important it is for all of us. This is your final stand, and your help is needed.

Let’s Take a Stand – Together

Georgia’s House Bill 458 has been introduced to amend the state code regarding controlled substances and add provisions that strictly regulate Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products derived from hemp. This substitute version of House Bill 458 allows the manufacture and sale of delta-8 THC, and other isomers, products as long as they are derived from hemp, contain no more than 0.3% THC, and comply with labeling and testing requirements. The proposed legislation has received mixed reactions from the public, with some expressing support for the bill and others opposing it due to the significant economic impact it would have on businesses in Georgia.

It is essential for people to continue expressing their opinions and concerns to their representatives in the Senate Regulated Industries Committee to make a difference in the outcome of the bill. Organizations like the Georgia Healthy Alternatives Association (GHA) are fighting against the bill and protecting Georgians’ rights to healthy alternative products. People can support their efforts by donating to GHA or becoming a member, contacting local representatives and raising awareness, and expressing opposition to these measures to protect the future of the hemp industry and access to healthy alternatives.