The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission is responsible for licensing and regulating low-THC cannabis oil dispensaries. Under Georgia law, specifically the Low THC Medical Oil Program Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-310 et seq.), a dispensary must obtain a license from the Commission. The Act outlines specific requirements for licensure, including background checks, financial stability, and operational plans. Furthermore, the Commission establishes rules and regulations that govern the cultivation, processing, and sale of low-THC cannabis oil. A key aspect of these regulations involves the testing and labeling of products to ensure safety and accurate potency information. For a dispensary to operate legally in Georgia, it must adhere to all promulgated rules and maintain its license in good standing. The renewal process also involves demonstrating continued compliance with these standards.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission (GMCC) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the state’s medical cannabis program. Under Georgia law, specifically the Georgia’s Hope Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-310 et seq.), the GMCC is tasked with licensing and regulating businesses involved in the production, processing, and sale of low-THC cannabis oil. This includes setting standards for cultivation, manufacturing, testing, and dispensing. The Commission’s authority extends to establishing rules and regulations that ensure the safety, efficacy, and accessibility of medical cannabis products for registered patients. For instance, the GMCC promulgates rules concerning the maximum allowable THC content in dispensed products, which is currently set at 5% by weight. They also dictate the requirements for dispensing locations, requiring them to be registered and operate under strict protocols to prevent diversion and ensure patient confidentiality. The licensing process for dispensaries involves a rigorous application and review procedure, with the GMCC evaluating factors such as the applicant’s business plan, security measures, and operational protocols. The Commission’s role is crucial in implementing the legislative intent of providing a safe and regulated medical cannabis program for qualifying patients in Georgia, distinguishing it from the broader federal prohibition of cannabis.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission is responsible for overseeing the state’s low-THC cannabis oil program. This commission is established under Georgia law and is tasked with licensing and regulating cannabis oil production facilities, dispensaries, and the physicians who certify patients. The commission also sets standards for the quality and safety of cannabis oil products. The specific statutory authority for the commission’s creation and its powers are found within the Georgia Code. The commission’s role is crucial in ensuring that patients who qualify for low-THC cannabis oil in Georgia can access safe and regulated products, while also adhering to the state’s specific legal framework for medical cannabis. Understanding the foundational legal basis for this commission is essential for comprehending the operational and regulatory landscape of medical cannabis in Georgia.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission oversees the licensing and regulation of low-THC cannabis oil production and dispensing in Georgia. Under Georgia law, specifically the Georgia’s Low-THC Medical Use Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-370 et seq.), a registered qualifying patient may possess up to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC oil. The Act defines “low-THC oil” as a cannabis product containing no more than 5% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) by weight. The question probes the understanding of the legal possession limit for a registered patient in Georgia. The core of the law specifies a maximum of 20 fluid ounces. Therefore, any scenario involving a patient exceeding this amount, or a question about the precise legal limit, directly relates to this statutory provision. The distinction between fluid ounces and weight is important in cannabis regulation, but the Georgia law explicitly states the possession limit in fluid ounces for low-THC oil. Understanding this specific measurement and quantity is crucial for compliance within the state’s medical cannabis program.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission (GMCC) is the regulatory body overseeing the state’s low-THC cannabis program. A key aspect of their regulation involves the licensing and operation of dispensaries. Georgia law, specifically within the framework established by the Georgia Hemp Farming Act and subsequent medical cannabis legislation, mandates that dispensaries must adhere to strict operational and security protocols. These protocols are designed to ensure product safety, prevent diversion, and maintain compliance with state regulations. The licensing process involves a thorough review of the applicant’s business plan, security measures, operational procedures, and the qualifications of key personnel. The GMCC is responsible for issuing licenses, conducting inspections, and enforcing compliance. Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in disciplinary actions, including fines or revocation of the license. The intent behind these stringent requirements is to create a safe and regulated environment for patients to access low-THC cannabis products while minimizing risks to public health and safety. The commission’s authority extends to setting standards for product testing, labeling, packaging, and dispensing practices, all of which are critical components of the state’s medical cannabis program.

The Georgia Department of Public Health oversees the state’s Low THC Medical Cannabis Program. Eligibility for the program is strictly defined by statute. Under Georgia law, a qualifying patient must have a debilitating medical condition as certified by a physician. The law specifies a list of qualifying conditions, which includes conditions such as cancer, seizure disorders, multiple sclerosis, and Crohn’s disease, among others. It is crucial to understand that the program is not a recreational cannabis program and is intended solely for medical use under specific legal parameters. The possession and use of cannabis products are governed by strict limits on THC concentration and the amount a patient can possess. The certification process requires a registered physician to issue a Low THC Oil Registry Card. The legal framework in Georgia differentiates between medical and recreational cannabis, with significant penalties for violations of the medical cannabis program regulations. This program is distinct from the cannabis laws in other states like Colorado or California, which have broader legalization frameworks.

In Georgia, the Low-THC Medical Use Act of 2015, as amended, establishes a framework for the medical use of cannabis. Specifically, the Georgia Department of Public Health is responsible for overseeing the program. Licensed physicians can certify patients for the low-THC oil if they have a qualifying medical condition. The law permits possession of up to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC oil. However, it is crucial to understand that the sale or distribution of cannabis products is strictly regulated and generally prohibited outside of the authorized dispensing organizations. Possession of cannabis in any form other than the legally defined low-THC oil, or exceeding the statutory limit, can lead to criminal penalties. The law does not permit cultivation by patients or caregivers, nor does it allow for the sale of cannabis flower or other raw forms of the plant. The focus is on the therapeutic oil, with stringent controls on its production and distribution. Therefore, a patient possessing more than the legally allowed amount of low-THC oil, even if for medical use, would be in violation of Georgia law. The possession limit is a key element of the Georgia Low-THC Medical Use Act.

Georgia’s medical cannabis program, established by the Georgia’s Hope Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-370 et seq.), permits registered patients to possess up to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC oil. The law specifically outlines qualifying medical conditions and requires a physician’s certification. The sale and distribution of medical cannabis are regulated through licensed dispensaries. Possession of cannabis exceeding the low-THC threshold or without a valid registration and physician’s certification constitutes a violation of Georgia law. The focus is on therapeutic use of low-THC oil, not recreational use or possession of other forms of cannabis. The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission oversees the licensing and regulation of the industry. The law does not permit cultivation by patients.

The Georgia Controlled Substances Act, specifically O.C.G.A. § 16-13-21, defines marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance. This classification is critical because it signifies a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, nor a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision. The statute explicitly lists cannabis and its derivatives, including tetrahydrocannabinols (THC), as falling under this definition. Therefore, possession, distribution, cultivation, or any other handling of marijuana without specific legal authorization, such as that provided by the Georgia Hope Act for low-THC cannabis oil, is a criminal offense. The Hope Act, enacted in 2015 and subsequently amended, permits the possession and use of low-THC cannabis oil by registered patients with qualifying medical conditions, but it does not legalize marijuana in its traditional forms or for recreational use. The legal framework in Georgia strictly adheres to the federal classification of marijuana, maintaining its status as a controlled substance. This legal stance impacts various aspects, including law enforcement priorities, penalties for offenses, and the limited scope of medical access. Understanding this classification is foundational to comprehending Georgia’s approach to cannabis regulation.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission (GMCC) is responsible for regulating the state’s low-THC cannabis oil program. Under Georgia law, specifically the Georgia’s Hope Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-370 et seq.), registered qualifying patients can possess up to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC cannabis oil. This possession limit is a key aspect of patient access. The law also outlines the licensing and operational requirements for cannabis oil producers, dispensaries, and physicians who certify patients. The GMCC oversees these entities to ensure compliance with the established regulations, which include strict testing protocols for potency and contaminants, dispensing procedures, and record-keeping. The commission’s authority extends to setting standards for product safety and ensuring that only qualified patients receive access to the oil. The creation of a state-regulated market aims to provide a safe and legal avenue for patients to obtain low-THC cannabis oil for medical purposes, as defined by the statute, which includes a list of qualifying medical conditions.

The Georgia Low-THC Medical Cannabis Program, established by the Georgia Department of Public Health, permits the possession and use of low-THC cannabis oil by registered patients. The law, codified in O.C.G.A. § 16-12-310 et seq., specifically defines “low-THC cannabis oil” as containing no more than 5% by weight of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The program allows for a 20-day supply of low-THC oil, which is defined as a maximum of 20 fluid ounces. The question asks about the maximum allowable THC concentration by weight in Georgia’s low-THC cannabis oil. This is a direct recall of the statutory definition. The key is understanding that “low-THC” in Georgia is quantified by a specific percentage limit on THC content. The 5% threshold is the defining characteristic of what qualifies as low-THC cannabis oil under Georgia law, differentiating it from higher THC content cannabis. This limit is crucial for producers, dispensaries, and patients to ensure compliance with the state’s medical cannabis regulations.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission oversees the licensing and regulation of the state’s medical cannabis program. Licensed dispensaries in Georgia are permitted to sell low-THC cannabis oil to registered patients. The law, specifically the Georgia’s Low THC Medical Oil Act, defines the maximum allowable THC concentration for these products. While the law has evolved, the core principle remains that products must contain no more than 5% THC by weight. This percentage is a critical threshold. Any product exceeding this limit would be considered a higher potency cannabis product and would not be permissible for sale under the current Georgia medical cannabis framework. Therefore, a dispensary operating legally within Georgia must ensure all its dispensed low-THC cannabis oil products adhere to this strict concentration limit. The focus is on therapeutic use with minimal psychoactive effects, distinguishing it from recreational cannabis markets in other US states like Colorado or California. The regulatory body’s role is to ensure compliance with these limits to protect public health and safety within the state’s medical program.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission oversees the state’s low-THC cannabis program. A key aspect of this regulation involves the licensing and operation of dispensaries. Specifically, Georgia law, as codified in O.C.G.A. § 16-12-370 et seq., outlines the requirements for these licenses. The statute mandates that a licensed dispensary must operate under a permit issued by the Commission. This permit is tied to the specific location of the dispensary. Should a dispensary wish to relocate its operations, it is not permitted to simply transfer its existing permit to a new address. Instead, the dispensary must apply for a new permit for the proposed new location. This process ensures that the Commission can review and approve the suitability of the new site in accordance with all established regulations, including zoning and safety requirements. The original permit remains associated with the former location until it is officially surrendered or expires. Therefore, a dispensary seeking to move must undergo a new permitting process for the intended new premises, rather than modifying or transferring the existing one.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission is responsible for overseeing the state’s medical cannabis program. This includes licensing dispensaries, manufacturers, and cultivation facilities. The commission also establishes rules and regulations for the program, ensuring compliance with Georgia law. The specific provisions for licensing are detailed within the Georgia Code, particularly in Chapter 16 of Title 16, which addresses low-THC oil. This chapter outlines the requirements for obtaining a license, including background checks, facility standards, and operational protocols. The commission’s authority extends to setting fees, approving product testing, and enforcing penalties for violations. Therefore, understanding the regulatory body and its foundational legal framework is crucial for anyone involved in Georgia’s medical cannabis industry.

Georgia’s Low-THC Medical Cannabis Program, established by the Georgia Compassionate Use Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-310 et seq.), permits registered patients to possess a limited amount of low-THC cannabis oil. The law specifies a maximum of 20 fluid ounces of low-THC cannabis oil for possession by a qualifying patient. This quantity is a critical limit, and exceeding it can lead to legal consequences. The law also outlines specific requirements for dispensing, including that it must be done by a licensed dispensing organization and that the product must contain no more than 5% THC by weight. Registered patients are issued a Low-THC Registry identification card, which must be presented when purchasing or possessing the oil. The program is overseen by the Georgia Department of Public Health. Understanding these specific parameters, such as the possession limit and the THC concentration, is crucial for both patients and anyone involved in the dispensing or regulatory aspects of the program in Georgia.

The Georgia Compassionate Use Act of 2015, as amended, establishes a legal framework for the medical use of low-THC cannabis. Key provisions include the definition of qualifying medical conditions, the establishment of a patient registry, and the licensing of dispensing organizations. A crucial aspect of the Act pertains to the permissible tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. Specifically, the law defines “low-THC cannabis” as cannabis with no more than 5% THC by weight. This threshold is a fundamental regulatory parameter that distinguishes legal medical cannabis from illicit marijuana under Georgia law. Understanding this specific percentage is vital for patients, physicians, and licensed dispensaries to ensure compliance. The Act does not, however, permit the cultivation of cannabis by registered patients or their caregivers. Instead, it outlines a process for licensed dispensing organizations to cultivate, process, and dispense low-THC cannabis products to registered patients. The Act also specifies the types of medical professionals who can authorize the use of low-THC cannabis and the process for obtaining a patient registry card. Furthermore, it addresses the penalties for violating the provisions of the Act, including unauthorized possession or distribution. The focus remains on a controlled and regulated medical access system.

Georgia’s Low-THC Medical Cannabis Program, established by the Georgia’s Hope Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-310 et seq.), permits registered patients with qualifying medical conditions to possess and use low-THC cannabis oil. The law specifies a maximum THC concentration of 5% by weight in the cannabis oil. This program is overseen by the Georgia Department of Public Health. It is crucial to understand that the possession and sale of cannabis flower or products exceeding the 5% THC limit are illegal in Georgia under its medical cannabis laws. The program focuses exclusively on the therapeutic use of low-THC cannabis oil, differentiating it from recreational cannabis laws in other states like Colorado or California, which permit much higher THC concentrations and broader product availability. The legal framework in Georgia is designed to provide a tightly regulated medical option, with strict controls on cultivation, processing, dispensing, and patient access. Any deviation from these regulations, such as possessing cannabis flower or oil with THC content above the legal limit, can result in criminal charges under Georgia’s general drug laws.

Georgia’s Low-THC Medical Cannabis Program, established by the Georgia’s Hope Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-310 et seq.), permits registered patients to possess a limited amount of low-THC cannabis oil. The law specifies that a qualifying patient may possess no more than 20 fluid ounces of low-THC cannabis oil at any given time. This limit is a critical aspect of the program, differentiating it from adult-use or broader medical cannabis laws in other states like Colorado or California. The purpose of this strict limit is to ensure that the program remains focused on therapeutic use for qualifying medical conditions and to prevent diversion or misuse. Registered patients are issued an identification card, which serves as their authorization to possess the low-THC oil. It is important to note that the Georgia program is highly regulated, with strict requirements for dispensing organizations and a limited list of qualifying medical conditions. Possession of cannabis oil exceeding the 20-fluid ounce limit without proper authorization would be a violation of Georgia law.

The Georgia Compassionate Use Act of 2015, as amended, outlines the conditions under which low-THC cannabis oil can be dispensed to qualifying patients. A key aspect of this legislation is the establishment of a state registry and the requirement for physicians to certify a patient’s qualifying condition. The Act specifies a list of qualifying medical conditions, which is periodically reviewed and updated by the Georgia Department of Public Health. The law does not permit the cultivation of cannabis by patients or caregivers, nor does it allow for the smoking of cannabis. Instead, it focuses on the availability of low-THC cannabis oil, which is defined as having a THC content of no more than 5% by weight. The dispensing of this oil must occur through licensed dispensaries, and the Act sets limits on the amount a patient can possess. The physician’s certification is a critical step in the process, confirming that the patient’s condition meets the statutory criteria for medical cannabis treatment. The focus remains on therapeutic use and managing specific debilitating conditions, not recreational use or broad access.

Georgia’s Low-THC Medical Cannabis Program, established by the Georgia Hope Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-310 et seq.), permits registered patients to possess a limited amount of low-THC cannabis. The law specifies that a qualifying patient may possess no more than 20 fluid ounces of low-THC cannabis oil. This amount is intended to be a month’s supply for a patient. The program is overseen by the Georgia Department of Public Health. It is crucial for patients and caregivers to understand the precise quantity allowed to ensure compliance with state law. Possession of amounts exceeding the statutory limit, even by registered patients, can lead to legal penalties. The focus of the law is on providing access to medical cannabis for qualifying conditions while maintaining strict controls to prevent diversion and misuse. The 20-ounce limit is a key regulatory component designed to define the scope of legal possession within the state’s medical cannabis framework.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission (GMCC) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the state’s medical cannabis program. Under Georgia law, specifically the Georgia’s Hope Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-370 et seq.), the GMCC is tasked with licensing and regulating cannabis oil production facilities, dispensaries, and the cultivation of low-THC cannabis. The law outlines specific requirements for these entities, including security protocols, testing standards, and product labeling. The Commission’s role is to ensure that the medical cannabis program operates safely and effectively for registered patients. The other options describe entities or functions that are not the primary regulatory authority for Georgia’s medical cannabis program. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is a law enforcement agency. The Department of Public Health (DPH) has broader public health responsibilities but is not the direct licensing and regulatory body for cannabis oil production and dispensaries. The Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) is responsible for tax collection and may be involved in specific aspects of the program related to taxation, but not the core licensing and regulation of cannabis operations.

The Georgia Low-THC Medical Cannabis Program, as established by Georgia law, specifically O.C.G.A. § 16-12-370 et seq., outlines the conditions under which low-THC cannabis can be possessed and dispensed. A critical aspect of this program is the definition of “low-THC cannabis” itself. This definition is crucial for distinguishing between legally permissible possession and illegal controlled substance offenses under Georgia’s controlled substances act. The law specifies a maximum allowable concentration of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) for cannabis to be classified as low-THC. This threshold is set at 5% by weight. Any cannabis exceeding this concentration is not considered low-THC cannabis under the Georgia program and would fall under the state’s general cannabis prohibition laws, carrying significant legal penalties. Therefore, understanding this specific percentage is fundamental to comprehending the scope and limitations of Georgia’s medical cannabis legislation. The 5% threshold is a key regulatory parameter that differentiates legal medical use from illegal possession of higher-THC cannabis products.

The Georgia Low-THC Medical Cannabis Program, as established by the Georgia Hemp Farming Act and subsequent legislation, allows for the cultivation and sale of low-THC cannabis oil. This oil is intended for registered patients with qualifying medical conditions. The law specifies a maximum allowable THC concentration for the oil, which is set at 5% by weight. This limit is crucial for differentiating the product from higher-THC cannabis, which remains illegal under Georgia law. The program is overseen by the Georgia Department of Public Health and the Georgia Agricultural Hemp Commission, which regulates cultivation, processing, and dispensing. Dispensaries must be licensed and adhere to strict operational standards. Patients must obtain a Low-THC registration card to legally possess and use the cannabis oil. The law aims to balance patient access with public safety concerns by strictly controlling the potency and distribution of the product.

The Georgia Low-THC Medical Cannabis Program, established by the Georgia Compassionate Use Act of 2015 (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-320 et seq.), permits registered patients to possess up to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC cannabis oil. The law specifies that the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content in the oil must not exceed 5% by weight. This program is distinct from recreational cannabis laws in other states, such as Colorado or California, which permit much higher THC concentrations and broader possession limits for adult use. The Georgia program’s focus is on medical treatment for qualifying conditions, with strict regulatory oversight. Possession of cannabis oil exceeding the 5% THC limit or exceeding the 20-ounce quantity, without proper registration and certification, constitutes a violation of Georgia law. The law also details the licensing and regulation of cannabis oil production and dispensing by licensed businesses. Understanding these specific limitations and the regulatory framework is crucial for compliance within Georgia.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission is responsible for establishing and enforcing regulations concerning the cultivation, processing, and distribution of low-THC cannabis oil for qualifying patients in Georgia. Under Georgia law, specifically the Low THC Medical Use Act, a patient can possess up to 20 fluid ounces of low-THC cannabis oil. The law outlines specific requirements for obtaining and possessing this oil, including registration with the state and a physician’s certification. The Commission’s role is to oversee the licensing of dispensaries and cultivation facilities, ensuring compliance with safety standards, testing protocols, and possession limits. The focus is on providing access to medical cannabis for registered patients while maintaining strict regulatory control. The question tests the understanding of the legal possession limit for low-THC cannabis oil in Georgia, which is a core component of the state’s medical cannabis program as administered by the Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission is responsible for overseeing the state’s low-THC cannabis oil program. This commission establishes rules and regulations for the licensing of cannabis oil production facilities, dispensaries, and the registration of patients and their caregivers. A key aspect of their regulatory authority involves setting standards for product safety and testing. These standards are crucial for ensuring that cannabis oil products available to registered patients are free from harmful contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial pathogens, and that they accurately reflect their labeled cannabinoid content. The commission’s rules, often found within the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OGA) and Georgia Rules and Regulations, detail the specific testing methodologies, required detection limits, and the frequency of testing for various types of contaminants. For instance, O.C.G.A. § 16-12-317 outlines the requirements for testing cannabis oil products, mandating that all products sold in Georgia must undergo testing by an independent, state-licensed laboratory to verify potency and safety. This includes testing for residual solvents, mold, mildew, and insect or plant parts. The commission’s role is to enforce these testing protocols and to ensure that all licensed entities comply with these stringent requirements, thereby protecting public health and ensuring the integrity of the medical cannabis program.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission (GMCC) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the state’s low-THC cannabis oil program. Under Georgia law, specifically the Georgia Hope Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-310 et seq.), the GMCC is tasked with licensing and regulating cannabis oil producers, dispensaries, and the overall industry. The commission’s authority extends to establishing rules and regulations concerning the cultivation, processing, distribution, and sale of low-THC cannabis oil. This includes setting standards for product safety, potency, and labeling, as well as ensuring compliance with all applicable state laws. The commission also plays a role in the registration of qualifying patients and their caregivers, and in the oversight of research initiatives related to medical cannabis. Therefore, any entity involved in the production or sale of low-THC cannabis oil in Georgia must adhere to the regulations and licensing requirements set forth by the GMCC. The other options represent entities or concepts not directly responsible for the primary regulatory oversight of Georgia’s low-THC cannabis oil program. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is primarily a law enforcement agency. The Department of Public Health (DPH) has broader public health responsibilities but not the specific regulatory authority over cannabis oil production and sales. The Board of Pharmacy in Georgia regulates pharmacies and pharmacists, but the direct oversight of the cannabis oil program is vested in the GMCC.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission (GMCC) is responsible for regulating the state’s low-THC cannabis program. Under Georgia law, specifically the Jasper’s Law (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-370 et seq.), the GMCC oversees licensing of cannabis production, processing, and dispensing. The law establishes strict requirements for these licenses, including background checks, financial viability, and operational plans. A critical aspect of the regulatory framework is the establishment of dispensaries, which are licensed entities authorized to sell low-THC cannabis oil to registered patients. The law specifies the number of dispensaries that can be licensed statewide and also allows for the establishment of a limited number of dispensaries per county. The total number of licenses issued is a key metric for the program’s rollout and accessibility. While the law permits the GMCC to set specific fees and requirements, the foundational structure for dispensary licensing is outlined in the statute. The correct answer reflects the entity directly responsible for licensing these dispensaries within the state’s legal framework.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission is responsible for licensing and regulating low-THC cannabis oil dispensaries. Under Georgia law, specifically the Low THC Medical Use Act, a dispensary must obtain a license from the Commission to operate. The Act outlines specific requirements for licensure, including background checks, security measures, and operational protocols. While the Georgia Department of Administrative Services (DOAS) handles various state procurement and administrative functions, it is not the licensing authority for medical cannabis dispensaries. Similarly, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is involved in law enforcement and criminal investigations, not the direct licensing of dispensaries. The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) oversees public health initiatives and may have a role in patient registration or product safety standards, but the primary licensing and regulatory authority for dispensaries rests with the Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission. Therefore, any entity seeking to operate a low-THC cannabis oil dispensary in Georgia must secure a license from this specific commission.

The Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission oversees the state’s medical cannabis program, including licensing dispensaries. Under Georgia law, specifically the Georgia’s Hope Act (O.C.G.A. § 16-12-370 et seq.), the Commission is responsible for establishing rules and regulations for the issuance of licenses. These rules dictate the application process, including the required information and criteria for awarding licenses. The Commission evaluates applications based on factors such as the applicant’s financial stability, security measures, operational plan, and compliance with state regulations. The number of licenses issued is not fixed by statute but is determined by the Commission’s regulatory framework and the applicant pool. Therefore, understanding the Commission’s specific licensing procedures and the criteria they employ is crucial for any entity seeking to operate a cannabis dispensary in Georgia. The Commission’s authority to grant licenses is a core function, ensuring regulated access to low-THC cannabis oil for qualifying patients.