Medical Marijuana

A top state lawmaker has filed an early bill that would allow for the limited use of medical cannabis in Georgia.

Republican Rep. Allen Peake, who serves as part of the House leadership team, filed the legislation known as "Haleigh's Hope Act" on Monday — the first day lawmakers can pre-file bills for next year's legislative session.

The bill would allow "certain registered patients" to use and possess medical cannabis and allow the dispensing of medical cannabis by "licensed, registered entities" in Georgia subject to "significant security and strict state oversight."

The law allows only for non-smoking medical cannabis and limits the amount of the psychoactive compound known as tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, which can make users feel high.

Challenges Remain In Getting Law Passed

Hurdles remain as lawmakers consider how the legislation should be drafted and passed.

A study committee has been meeting to hear from representatives in law enforcement and recently the medical community who raised concerns about the use of medical cannabis even under narrow circumstances.

Progress is being made in bringing clinical trials to Georgia, but advocates warn those won't be enough to help all those who see cannabis oil as their best hope to manage debilitating diseases.

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