Products containing CBD have become mainstream. Lotions, oils, coffee and even dog treats containing CBD are marketed as a treatment for pain and anxiety. CBD comes from hemp plants. Although marijuana comes from the same plant family, most CBD products contain little, if any, THC — the ingredient in marijuana that produces the “high.”
So, are CBD products that contain THC legal in Georgia? As one veteran law enforcement officer who works on a drug task force says, “There’s a whole lot of confusion.” Under federal law, which is harsher on marijuana than most state laws are, CBD products that contain no more than .03% are legal. Under Georgia law, however, CBD products that contain any THC are illegal.
That doesn’t stop many retailers from selling CBD products that contain THC. However, the drug task force commander says that they only investigate these retailers when they receive complaints. He says, “We don’t go out and target those stores.” He points out, as many people do, that CBD products are far safer than opioids for pain relief.
A recent investigative report by a local news team found widespread confusion and misinformation over Georgia law. Those who sell CBD products wish that state law would align more closely with federal law. When the Georgia Hemp Farming Act takes effect this July, making hemp growing legal, some CBD products will be allowed to contain .03% THC. However, that won’t apply to all products — edibles, for example.
It’s unlikely that Georgia law enforcement officers will arrest someone for having a bottle of CBD oil containing THC in their car or their purse if they’ve done nothing else wrong. However, if they’re stopped for another reason, such as having illegal drugs on them, that CBD product could compound their problems.
Any drug charges need to be taken seriously. If you or a loved one has been arrested and charged with a drug crime, it’s essential to seek legal guidance.
