Petition to Extend and Enhance Medical Cannabis Access in Georgia

We, the undersigned, urge Georgia lawmakers to take a compassionate and progressive step by expanding medical cannabis laws to better serve the countless patients across the state who are suffering. Despite some progress made by the Hope Act of 2019, which legalized low-THC oil, Georgia's current restrictive regulations still prevent thousands of individuals from accessing the full potential of this natural remedy. For those enduring pain and debilitating symptoms, these regulations are insufficient, leaving many patients without the relief they desperately need.

Currently, the law excludes access to more effective forms of cannabis, such as flower, which has been proven to provide critical relief for those suffering from severe conditions like chronic pain, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy. Additionally, the rigid restrictions deny veterans with PTSD access to a remedy that has already proven to reduce their suffering, all while providing a safer alternative to addictive pharmaceuticals like opioids, which continue to ravage communities throughout Georgia.

The numbers tell an important story. Studies have shown that in states with more comprehensive medical cannabis programs, opioid overdose deaths have decreased by as much as 25%. In Georgia, overdose deaths have steadily risen over the years, with over 1,700 overdose deaths recorded in 2021 alone. Expanding access to cannabis could serve as a life-saving measure, allowing patients the option to choose a safer path.

There are over 600,000 Georgia residents who could potentially benefit from the expanded availability of medical cannabis, including patients with terminal cancer, seizure disorders, ALS, Crohn's disease, and veterans who continue to suffer in silence. Yet, under the current law, many are forced to either turn to the black market, travel out of state, or go without any meaningful relief whatsoever. These are our friends, our family members, our neighbors. They deserve better.

Georgia should not lag behind while 41 other states provide more substantial access to medical cannabis in various forms, including flower, edibles, and other options that suit individual patient needs. By expanding access to cannabis in its full spectrum, we can ensure that people are given the dignity to manage their own health. We are calling for lawmakers to embrace a more holistic and compassionate approach to patient care by permitting the sale of cannabis flower and other medicinal products at dispensaries statewide. No patient should have to suffer or endure needless hardship due to outdated restrictions.

To our leaders: We are pleading for change. Please hear the voices of those who are suffering. The time has come for Georgia to take meaningful action in the name of compassion and progress. By expanding access to medical cannabis, we can help alleviate pain, reduce suffering, and improve the quality of life for so many of our citizens who have waited far too long.

We call on all Georgians who believe in the power of compassion to join us in advocating for a comprehensive medical cannabis program. Sign this petition and let your voice be heard. Together, we can bring about the change that so many in our state need and deserve.