Positioning for Future Marijuana Market Expansion

Presented by the Georgia Cannabis Industry Alliance (GA CIA)

Since Georgia’s hemp retailers can’t currently enter the marijuana industry, the focus should be on strategically preparing for eventual expansion. Here’s how:

1. Building Industry Credibility & Influence

✔ Advocate for fair licensing pathways—push for regulations that ensure hemp businesses have entry opportunities when marijuana markets open.

✔ Strengthen your brand reputation so that when marijuana legalization progresses, your business is already recognized as a trusted industry player.

✔ Participate in cannabis policy discussions—connect with lawmakers and industry leaders to ensure hemp stakeholders have a seat at the table.

2. Strengthening Business Sustainability Until Transition is Possible

✔ Diversify product offerings—expand beyond hemp-derived cannabinoids to CBD wellness, botanical supplements, and functional health products.

✔ Invest in infrastructure—secure cultivation licenses, distribution networks, and scalable retail strategies that could pivot toward marijuana markets when legal.

✔ Build customer loyalty—a strong, established customer base will help smooth the transition when marijuana markets become accessible.3. Preparing for Future Licensing & Compliance Regulations

✔ Track legislative shifts—monitor policy changes that signal potential openings for business licensing in cannabis markets.

✔ Prepare documentation early—businesses that pre-organize financials, legal structures, and compliance plans will be first in line when opportunities arise.

✔ Form partnerships—collaborate with existing cannabis advocacy groups to position hemp businesses as integral players in future marijuana expansion.

But first, future stakeholders in the adult-use Marijuana business must actively advocate for decriminalization of Marijuana

Why Decriminalization Matters for Georgia’s Hemp Industry

✔ Eliminates Criminal Penalties – Reduces arrests and convictions for low-level cannabis possession, preventing unnecessary legal consequences.

✔ Opens Doors for Future Legalization – Decriminalization is often the first step toward full legalization, making it easier for hemp businesses to enter marijuana markets when laws evolve.

✔ Protects Consumers & Businesses – Ensures that patients and recreational users aren’t penalized for cannabis use, while allowing hemp retailers to advocate for fair regulations.

Current Advocacy Efforts in Georgia

Georgia lawmakers have historically resisted decriminalization, but advocacy groups like the GA CIA are pushing for comprehensive cannabis reform, including:

Removing marijuana from the state’s controlled substances list
Expunging past cannabis-related convictions
Creating a fair licensing system for future cannabis businesses

Next Steps for Stakeholders

✔ Engage legislators – Push for decriminalization bills that reduce penalties and expand access.

✔ Mobilize public support – Educate voters on how decriminalization benefits consumers, businesses, and the economy. ✔ Prepare for future legalization – Position hemp businesses to transition smoothly when Georgia eventually opens marijuana markets.