Cali of the South

With 11 states currently allowing recreational sales of marijuana and almost all 50 states allowing the sale of hemp-derived CBD products, THC has become a household name and societal norm.

In true fashion, the south has remained one of the regions in the United States where marijuana is still illegal for both recreational and medical use. It is also an area where marijuana crimes are still heavily prosecuted. But in certain jurisdictions where marijuana laws have been relaxed, there has emerged a subculture of cannabis enthusiast groups, educators, and entrepreneurs that revel in sharing their elevated experiences and information with other like minded individuals.

The underground market has always been a fixture in America's culture, but with laws changing everyday, a level of freedom allows people to explore everything cannabis culture has to offer. At the top of the list of those places is Atlanta, GA. This southern hub has become a cultural and business mecca of entertainment, talent, Fortune 500 corporations, fashion, and restaurateurs. The underground market in Atlanta is not exempt from being a go-to for out of towners looking to indulge in experiences not easily attainable where they are located.

Normally, someone living in a state where marijuana is still deemed an illegal substance, cannabis consumers are forced to choose between shady corner salesmen with a limited supply and even more limited knowledge of what they are selling you. But in this bustling metropolis, those in the know can find everything from high quality concentrates, exotic rare flower strains, to accurately dosed ingestibles.

A new wave of entrepreneurs have emerged and are taking over before officially being given the greenlight. It still comes with its challenges despite relaxed enforcement and widespread acceptance. Finding venues that cater to this lifestyle, sourcing ingredients and tools, lack of marketing exposure due to advertising restrictions make serving or consuming somewhat of a task.

This is a culture that will continue to grow and thrive regardless of whether the state chooses to grow as well. Becoming educated on the local, state, and federal laws and the consequences that accompany them are a MUST for all within the cannabis community. Visit the NORML - Georgia Laws and Penalties website for information on current Georgia marijuana laws.

Safe Toking!