GA SB494

Establishes a comprehensive licensing framework for the hemp product supply chain in Georgia, requiring separate licenses for manufacturers ($5,000/year), wholesale consumable hemp distributors ($500–$10,000/year), retail consumable hemp establishments ($250/year per location), and registered laboratories ($250 one-time fee), with most provisions effective October 1, 2024

Prohibits the sale, purchase, and possession of consumable hemp products by individuals under age 21, with violations classified as misdemeanors; retailers must post conspicuous signage about the age restriction, and the Department of Agriculture may conduct random unannounced compliance inspections

Requires all consumable hemp products sold in Georgia to have a full panel certificate of analysis (updated within 12 months) from an accredited, independent laboratory, covering THC levels, multiple cannabinoid compounds, and contaminant levels, with results accessible to consumers via label or QR code

Imposes packaging and advertising restrictions prohibiting consumable hemp products from being attractive to children, resembling existing candy or food products, or being combined with food products or alcoholic beverages; packaging must be tamper-evident and child-resistant

Reduces the minimum surety bond for hemp processors from $300,000 to $20,000, lowers the annual hemp processor permit fee from $25,000 to a range of $500–$2,000, and prohibits new retail consumable hemp establishments from operating within 500 feet of K-12 schools (effective July 1, 2024)