Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina announced the creation of a State Advisory Council on Cannabis, aimed at regulating the state’s unregulated cannabis market. This initiative comes in response to the widespread availability of intoxicating THC products across the state, which are accessible to consumers of all ages without any legal restrictions. Stein highlighted the urgency of the situation by noting that children can easily obtain these products in local vape shops.
In a press release, Stein stated, “Today, all across North Carolina, there are unregulated intoxicating THC products available for purchase. There is no legal minimum age to purchase these products! That means that kids are buying them.” He emphasized the need for a legal framework that not only protects young people but also allows adults to access cannabis safely.
The advisory council’s mission includes developing a comprehensive regulatory system that encompasses several key areas: protecting youth, enabling adult sales, ensuring public safety, promoting public health, supporting local agriculture, expunging past convictions for simple THC possession, and allocating revenue towards addiction resources, mental health services, and drugged driving detection.
Stein signed the executive order establishing the council on May 3. He urged the General Assembly to take immediate steps to prohibit the sale of intoxicating THC products to individuals under the age of 21 and to enforce age verification through photo ID. Additionally, he called for clear labeling on packaging to inform consumers about the THC content and other relevant product information.
In light of recent concerns about cannabis exposure among children, Stein stated, “The status quo of zero protection of our kids is absolutely unacceptable. Let’s work together on a thoughtful, comprehensive solution that allows sales to adults and that is grounded in public safety and health.”
Adriana Barnes, head of product at Asheville Dispensary, acknowledged both the positives and negatives associated with the formation of the advisory council. She pointed out the importance of accurate product packaging and educating consumers about the psychoactive nature of cannabis. However, she also expressed concern that overly stringent regulations could pose challenges for small businesses in the industry. “Making it to the point that regulations are so tight makes small business impossible to thrive,” Barnes noted.
Despite her concerns, Barnes believes that the North Carolina cannabis industry can adapt to stricter regulations if given sufficient time. She stated, “I do think in some situations that tighter regulations can benefit the industry just because it is going to weed out some of those companies that aren’t taking things seriously.”
The State Advisory Council on Cannabis will include representatives from various state agencies, including the Office of State Budget and Management, the State Highway Patrol, and the Departments of Health and Human Services, Public Safety, Revenue, Transportation, and Justice, along with officials from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and the General Assembly.
The council is scheduled to begin meetings in July and will convene bimonthly until December 31, 2026, when it plans to release its final recommendations.
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