Rotary International Clubs have a Four-Way Test that we recite each week. One of the questions is, “Will it be beneficial to all concerned?”That question was never more important than earlier this year when Gov. Brian Kemp signed House Bill (HB) 324, also known as the “Marijuana Bill.” State law allows people with 16 different specific conditions to possess cannabis oil with less than 5% Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The challenge for many was a law preventing growing, buying, or selling the oil. House Bill 324 eliminated these issues and granted six growing licenses to private companies. It will also allow two universities to seek federal approval to research and produce the oil. For the numerous people cannabis oil can help, this is great news.
However, for law enforcement, I am not so sure. The Sheriff’s Association adamantly opposes it, as they are convinced the measure will eventually lead to recreational marijuana legalization. Another concern for some is that the medallions (production licenses) may become expensive tokens, much like the New York taxi medallion scenario. If that happens, the cannabis oil could become entangled in a commodity-type environment and become very costly.
Another Four-Way Test question, “Is it fair to all concerned?”
Gov. Kemp also signed into law HB 281 (Georgia Tenant Victim Protection Act), HB 424 (crimes and offenses; include certain sex crimes into the definition of criminal gang activity), and Senate Bill 158 (Anti-Human Trafficking Protective Response Act). These laws help our state continue the fight against human trafficking. The state of Georgia continues to be plagued with this terrible crime, and these bills provide strong tools for the attorney general and other members of law enforcement in their pursuit of justice, especially involving gangs.
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