RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein has signed an executive order establishing a State Advisory Council on Cannabis to explore regulatory options for cannabis, including potential legalization of recreational marijuana.
The 24-member council will recommend a comprehensive cannabis policy, with preliminary proposals due by March 15, 2026, and final recommendations by year’s end. Members include lawmakers, law enforcement, health officials, and representatives from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians—whose tribal dispensary already sells marijuana to adults over 21.
Stein, a Democrat and former attorney general, said the council’s goal is to bring order to the current unregulated cannabis market, which includes hemp-derived products that can still deliver a marijuana-like high. “This ‘Wild West’ market leaves kids exposed,” Stein said, calling for a thoughtful system that ensures public safety and health.
Though marijuana remains illegal in North Carolina for both medical and recreational use, hemp is legal due to its low THC levels. However, some sellers are now extracting enough THC from hemp to make potent, intoxicating products widely available in vape and convenience stores.
“I believe adults should be able to choose what they want to do, but they need to be protected and informed,” Stein told WRAL-TV. He also voiced support for legalizing recreational marijuana with proper safeguards.
The council includes Republican lawmakers like Sen. Bill Rabon, a longtime supporter of medical marijuana, and Rep. John Bell, a hemp industry executive who supports stronger regulation.
In addition to proposing a legal framework for adult-use sales, Stein wants the council to recommend policies that:
- Prevent sales to minors
- Promote public health and safety
- Support North Carolina agriculture
- Expunge past low-level THC convictions
- Reinvest tax revenues in addiction services and mental health
While the legislature would need to enact any legalization laws, the council’s work could increase pressure on lawmakers. For now, Stein urged the General Assembly to ban sales to anyone under 21 and require clear packaging standards.
Currently, 39 states and D.C. allow medical marijuana, and about half the country permits recreational use in small amounts, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
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