🧠 North Carolina Governor Establishes Cannabis Advisory Council to Explore Legalization
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has signed an executive order creating the North Carolina Advisory Council on Cannabis, marking a significant step toward potential cannabis legalization in the state. The council is tasked with studying and recommending options for a comprehensive statewide approach to cannabis that balances public health and safety considerations.
The newly formed council will convene its first meeting in July and is expected to submit preliminary recommendations to the governor by March 15, 2026. In the interim, Governor Stein has advocated for immediate legislative action to prohibit the sale of intoxicating THC products to individuals under 21, mandating photo ID age verification and clear packaging to inform consumers about product contents.
This move aligns North Carolina with a growing number of states reevaluating their cannabis policies amid shifting public opinion and increasing evidence of the economic and social impacts of legalization. The council’s formation indicates a proactive approach to understanding the complexities of cannabis regulation and its potential implications for the state’s residents.
Stakeholders from various sectors, including public health, law enforcement, agriculture, and civil rights organizations, are expected to contribute to the council’s deliberations. Their insights will be crucial in shaping policies that address concerns such as youth access, public safety, economic development, and social equity.
As the council embarks on its mission, it will examine models from other states that have implemented cannabis legalization, assessing best practices and potential pitfalls. The outcome of this comprehensive study will inform North Carolina’s legislative approach to cannabis, potentially paving the way for future reforms.
Source: NC Newsline
