Macon, Georgia – Advocates for Georgia’s medical cannabis program are sounding the alarm about restrictions they say prevent thousands of residents with chronic conditions from getting the care they need. At a public meeting at Mercer University, speakers urged state lawmakers to modernize Georgia’s medical cannabis laws, which many describe as outdated and too narrow.
The Hope Act, passed in 2019, created Georgia’s Low-THC Medical Cannabis Program. It requires patients to have terminal conditions and to purchase products only from state-licensed dispensaries. Judson Hill, Georgia Market President of Fine Fettle one of just three licensed medical dispensaries operating in Macon said the current system leaves many people behind. “We’re trying to catch Georgia up and offer better treatment through more expansive products,” Hill explained, adding that more Georgians should be aware they can use medical cannabis for their ailments.
According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, roughly 30,000 Georgians are enrolled in the medical cannabis program. Advocates argue that number is far too low, given how many people suffer from qualifying conditions in other states. The Georgia House of Representatives’ Blue Ribbon Study Committee on Georgia’s Medical Marijuana and Hemp Policies is now touring the state to gather testimony.
Committee chairman Rep. Mark Newton, a physician, agrees that medical cannabis access should be broadened but stresses the importance of protecting Georgia’s youth. “We want to make sure we’ve got the right conditions, the right recommendations, and the right medical input for a patient who needs this for their or their family member’s condition,” Newton said.
The Hope Act requires patients to use non-smokable items such as edibles or topical lotions. Advocates counter that inhalable forms of medical cannabis can deliver faster relief for conditions like seizures or chronic pain. Hill warned that Georgia’s rigid rules have driven some patients to cross state lines or return to the traditional market, even though safe, tested medical cannabis is grown legally in Macon.
Both the state House and Senate versions of medical cannabis expansion failed during the 2025 legislative session. Committee members say public input collected this year will help shape recommendations in 2026. Supporters hope lawmakers will finally remove barriers and make medical cannabis more accessible, unlocking its full public health potential for tens of thousands of Georgians.
