North Carolina Cannabis History

As of April 2025, North Carolina's cannabis laws remain among the most restrictive in the United States. Both recreational and medical marijuana are illegal statewide, with limited exceptions.NC Cannabis Info Portal+1AP News+1

Current Legal Status

Recreational Use: Illegal. Possession of small amounts can lead to misdemeanor charges. For instance, possessing less than 0.5 ounces may result in a fine of up to $200. NC Cannabis Info Portal+1Catalyst BC+1
Medical Use: Generally illegal. The state permits the use of low-THC hemp extract (less than 0.9% THC and at least 5% CBD) solely for patients with intractable epilepsy. NC Cannabis Info Portal

Legislative Efforts

In March 2025, House Bill 413, known as the Marijuana Legalization and Reinvestment Act, was introduced by Representative Jordan Lopez. This bill aims to legalize and regulate the sale, possession, and use of cannabis for adults aged 21 and over. Key provisions include:MJBizDaily+3North Carolina General Assembly+3Cannabis Business Times+3

Legalizing possession of up to 2 ounces of cannabis and the cultivation of up to six plants for personal use.MJBizDaily+1NC Cannabis Info Portal+1
Establishing a regulatory framework prioritizing social equity by providing historically impacted applicants a six-month head start for business licenses.MJBizDaily+1North Carolina General Assembly+1
Imposing a 30% state excise tax on cannabis sales, with an option for municipalities to add an additional 2% tax.Sandman, Finn & Fitzhugh Attorneys+1MJBizDaily+1
Creating an Office of Community Reinvestment to manage funds generated from cannabis taxation.MJBizDaily+1North Carolina General Assembly+1
Expunging past cannabis-related offenses.MJBizDaily

Despite these efforts, the bill's progression remains uncertain, particularly given the North Carolina Senate's historical reluctance to advance similar legislation. Marijuana Moment+3AP News+3Catalyst BC+3

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians' Initiatives

Notably, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), a federally recognized tribe in North Carolina, has taken independent steps toward cannabis legalization on their sovereign land:AP News+2NC Cannabis Info Portal+2AP News+2

Medical Marijuana: In April 2024, the EBCI opened the Great Smoky Cannabis Company, a medical marijuana dispensary on the Qualla Boundary. This facility serves adults aged 21 and over with valid medical cannabis patient cards, including those from out-of-state programs. MJBizDaily+4AP News+4AP News+4
Recreational Marijuana: In September 2023, EBCI voters approved a referendum to legalize recreational cannabis use on tribal lands. By June 2024, the tribal council passed an ordinance permitting sales to all adults aged 21 and over, regardless of tribal membership. AP News

Hemp Industry Developments

The state's hemp industry has experienced significant growth due to lenient regulations. However, in March 2025, state lawmakers introduced legislation to impose stricter controls on psychoactive hemp products, such as delta-8 THC. The proposed bill aims to regulate the manufacturing, sale, and distribution of these products to ensure consumer safety. Axios

Conclusion

While there are movements toward cannabis reform in North Carolina, particularly within the EBCI's jurisdiction, statewide legalization for medical or recreational use has not been achieved as of April 2025. Residents should remain informed about ongoing legislative developments and adhere to current state laws regarding cannabis use and possession.Sandman, Finn & Fitzhugh Attorneys

Editor's Note: Status as of 4/10/2025