🚀 A New Chapter in North Carolina’s Cannabis Policy
In a significant move towards cannabis reform, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has signed an executive order establishing the State Advisory Council on Cannabis. This 24-member bipartisan council is tasked with developing comprehensive recommendations for regulating cannabis sales, including the potential legalization of recreational marijuana. wral.com+5apnews.com+5ncnewsline.com+5
Governor Stein emphasized the urgency of addressing the unregulated cannabis market, stating, “Our state’s unregulated cannabis market is the Wild West and is crying for order. Let’s get this right and create a safe, legal market for adults that protects kids.” apnews.com+2marijuanamoment.net+2governor.nc.gov+2
🛡️ Protecting Youth and Ensuring Public Safety
A primary concern driving this initiative is the accessibility of intoxicating THC products to minors. Currently, hemp-derived products with high THC levels are available without age restrictions, leading to increased emergency room visits among youth. apnews.com
The council aims to recommend regulations that would:reddit.com+7apnews.com+7marijuanamoment.net+7
- Prohibit sales of intoxicating THC products to individuals under 21
- Implement clear labeling and packaging standards
- Establish age-verification requirements for purchasesmarijuanamoment.net+5ncnewsline.com+5governor.nc.gov+5ncnewsline.com+4wccbcharlotte.com+4wxii12.com+4marijuanamoment.net+3governor.nc.gov+3ncnewsline.com+3
🤝 A Bipartisan Effort with Diverse Representation
The council comprises a diverse group of stakeholders, including:ncnewsline.com+2marijuanamoment.net+2governor.nc.gov+2
- State Health Director Lawrence Greenblatt
- Robeson County District Attorney Matt Scott
- Representatives from the Departments of Health and Human Services, Public Safety, Revenue, Transportation, and Justice
- Members of the General Assembly
- Law enforcement officials
- Representatives from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians wral.com+5ncnewsline.com+5governor.nc.gov+5apnews.com+3governor.nc.gov+3ncnewsline.com+3facebook.com+8wxii12.com+8wral.com+8en.wikipedia.org+4apnews.com+4ncnewsline.com+4
This inclusive approach ensures that various perspectives are considered in shaping the state’s cannabis policy.
📅 Timeline for Recommendations
The council is expected to hold its first meeting in July 2025. Preliminary policy recommendations and proposed legislation are due by March 15, 2026, with final recommendations to be submitted by the end of 2026. marijuanamoment.net+2apnews.com+2ncnewsline.com+2
🌱 Learning from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
Notably, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has already legalized recreational marijuana on tribal lands, providing a unique case study within the state. Their experience offers valuable insights into the implementation and regulation of cannabis sales, which the council can analyze to inform statewide policies. ncnewsline.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2apnews.com+2
🔄 Addressing Past Convictions and Promoting Equity
Governor Stein has also highlighted the importance of addressing past marijuana-related convictions. The council will explore options for expunging simple THC possession offenses, aiming to rectify the disproportionate impact of cannabis laws on certain communities. ncnewsline.com+4wccbcharlotte.com+4governor.nc.gov+4
💬 Public Input and Future Legislation
While the council’s recommendations will guide policy, any changes to cannabis laws will require approval from the General Assembly. Governor Stein encourages public engagement and bipartisan collaboration to develop a thoughtful, comprehensive solution that balances public health, safety, and individual freedoms. governor.nc.gov
