The Georgia Hemp Company™ Reacts to New Hemp Regulations Under Senate Bill 494

As the Georgia Department of Agriculture takes the helm of regulating hemp products, a new era of oversight begins with the implementation of Senate Bill 494. This legislation, designed to tighten the reins on how hemp products are packaged, labeled, and marketed, aims to shield consumers, particularly minors, from misleading advertisements and ensure the integrity of hemp products sold throughout the state.

A New Framework for Regulation

Matthew Agvent of the Georgia Department of Agriculture outlined the past regulatory landscape as somewhat chaotic, likening it to the “Wild West.” This lack of regulation often left consumers uncertain about the contents and legality of their purchases. Senate Bill 494 seeks to change that by introducing stringent requirements for testing the accuracy of product labels and the concentrations of active ingredients, specifically delta-9 THC. Agvent highlighted previous inconsistencies, noting, “Every one of the products we tested had labels that were not accurate to what was actually in the product, and every product also had illegal levels of delta-9 THC.”

Raising the Age Limit

Another significant change is the restriction on sales to individuals under the age of 21. This move aligns with similar regulations in the tobacco and alcohol industries, aiming to limit the accessibility of hemp products to minors.

Mixed Reactions from The Georgia Hemp Company™

While Joe Salome, co-owner of The Georgia Hemp Company™, supports many aspects of the bill—particularly those that level the playing field between legal hemp businesses and the black market—he has reservations about certain provisions. “The law brings much-needed clarity and structure to the hemp industry, which has been a relief,” Salome acknowledged. “However, we are concerned about the new regulations on hemp flowers and leaves, which are really hurting our business.”

The Georgia Hemp Company™ has always prided itself on compliance with existing laws, but the specific restriction on selling the flower and leaves of the hemp plant, regardless of THC levels, poses a significant challenge. “These products are some of our most popular and have always been sold in compliance with the law. This segment of our business is now severely impacted,” Salome explained.

Looking Forward

Despite these challenges, Salome remains optimistic about the future. “This year, the governor signed a bill that establishes clear parameters for our industry, which helps us compete more effectively with both the black market and the medical cannabis market. Our products are not only more potent, but we also offer a wider variety than the medical cannabis providers in the state.”

As the law goes into full effect on October 1st, The Georgia Hemp Company™ is adjusting its strategies to continue providing high-quality, compliant products. “While we navigate these new regulations, our commitment to our customers and to providing top-tier hemp products remains steadfast,” Salome affirmed.

The road ahead is paved with both opportunities and obstacles, but with continued advocacy and adaptation, The Georgia Hemp Company™ is set to remain a leader in Georgia’s hemp market, driving forward with innovation and integrity.