Rep. Allen Peake Monday changed his proposed medical cannabis legislation to decriminalize possession of the substance obtained by Georgians in other states for medical uses.
After discussions with Gov. Nathan Deal, Peake, R-Macon, announced the changes to his HB1, which would allow those with cancer and other medical conditions to use cannabis oil.
Another proposed change would set up a council to develop regulations regarding the growth of marijuana and the distribution of cannabis oil in Georgia. Deal had expressed concerns about marijuana cultivation in the state.
The change would decriminalize possession of cannabis oil containing between 3 to 5 percent THC for those who obtained the substance legally in another state.
“With this news, I am happy to say that our medical refugees in other states can start packing to come home and reunite with their families,” Peake said in a statement. “Once the updated legislation is formally introduced and passed by both House and Senate chambers, decriminalization would be effective as soon as the governor signs HB 1 into law.
“Families in Georgia who are seeking medical cannabis will now be able to go to another state to legally obtain the treatment and then come back home without fear of being prosecuted in Georgia.”
Referring to the council that will do cultivation research, Peake said, “After much discussion, it is clear that we need to conduct more research on setting an in-state growing scenario in order to provide the best and most effective infrastructure for our citizens.”