Georgia Parliament passes controversial bill tightening drug laws

Georgia’s parliament on Wednesday approved a controversial bill that tightens penalties for drug-related offences, sparking criticism from medical professionals and human rights advocates.

Passed on its third reading, the legislation introduces harsher punishments for the sale of narcotics and expands the government’s powers in combating drug crimes. Under the new provisions, selling any type of narcotic substance – even in small quantities – will carry a sentence of 12 to 20 years, or life imprisonment. Previously, the maximum penalty was 10 years.

The sale of cannabis and marijuana, specifically, will now be punished with three to six years in prison, while the sale of larger quantities will result in five to ten years’ imprisonment.

The law, set to come into effect on June 1, 2025, introduces new definitions into the Criminal Code, including what constitutes drug trafficking, who qualifies as a trafficker, and how authorities will classify the trafficker’s family, close relatives, and associates. Property owned by a drug dealer or individuals aiding in distribution can be seized and transferred to the state.

The legislation also imposes administrative and criminal penalties on individuals found to be under the influence of drugs. Anyone who tests positive or refuses a drug test will face a three-year suspension of their driving licence.