Georgia Governor Signing Bill to Expand Medical Marijuana Law

Governor Nathan Deal is expected to sign a medical marijuana law expansion bill that passed the State Senate on March 30. Representative Allen Peake sponsored the bill. The state’s medical marijuana program will remain one of the strictest in the country, but the expansion is a big win for patients in the state.

In 2015, possession of marijuana oil was made legal for a very limited list of medical conditions, according to The Newnan Times-Herald. That law, as written, did not allow for production of the oil within state lines. When hearings were held regarding the bill, parents of children with severe disorders spoke to fight for access and the expansion of the state’s program.

Dr. David Bradford spoke to lawmakers regarding the proof that exists regarding a reduction in opioid addiction/overdose deaths in states where medical marijuana is legal.

Dr. Bradford said, “Appropriately designed medical cannabis laws can save both lives and money.”

These conditions will be added to Georgia’s qualifying conditions list:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• AIDS
• Autism
• Epidermolysis bullosa
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Tourette’s syndrome

Patients in hospice care are also approved. Those visiting Georgia that are qualified for medical marijuana in their home states may use their medicine within Georgia state lines for up to 45 days. A valid medical marijuana card must be shown.

Senator Matt Brass said, “Today we’re going to provide more access to Georgians with very specific illnesses, and we’ll provide doctors more treatment options for patients.”