Is Marijuana Legal in North Carolina?
For a state that leads the U.S. in tobacco production, marijuana is surprisingly still illegal in North Carolina. This is however not a result of a lack of effort. Many bills have sprung up in the state legislature over the past few years, however, they have all failed to survive. Notwithstanding, advocates remain hopeful that cannabis legalization could still become a reality in the state. Research also confirms that most residents of North Carolina support the legalization of marijuana in the state. The following highlights all the key details regarding marijuana legalization in North Carolina.
Is weed legal in North Carolina?
Unfortunately not. Recreational use of marijuana is still illegal in the state.
When will weed be legal in North Carolina?
The use of cannabis for recreational purposes is still illegal and there is no timeframe on when this will change. Also, despite advocates pushing for recreational cannabis to be legalized, it is unlikely to happen in the near term.
Are edibles legal in North Carolina?
No, edibles and all other forms of recreational cannabis consumption and possession remain illegal in North Carolina.
Is medical marijuana legal in North Carolina?
No, medical marijuana is illegal in North Carolina.
How to get medical marijuana in North Carolina
While there are many advanced efforts aimed at legalizing medical marijuana across North Carolina, this is yet to happen. So, there is currently no legal way of purchasing medical marijuana in the state. However, CBD with under 0.9% THC and at least 5% CBD by weight are permitted for patients with intractable epilepsy.
Can I go to a dispensary without a card in North Carolina?
North Carolina does not currently have a medical marijuana program so there are no dispensaries or medical marijuana cards currently in use.
How long does it take to get your medical card in North Carolina?
There are no medical marijuana cards in North Carolina since the state does not currently have a medical marijuana program. For clarity, medical marijuana is still illegal in North Carolina.
Does North Carolina accept out-of-state MMJ cards?
No, North Carolina does not have a medical marijuana program or reciprocity arrangement with other states.
Marijuana bills/laws in North Carolina & key questions
North Carolina has a very brief marijuana legislation history and that’s not surprising. For instance, its first significant cannabis legislation was when Gov. Pat McCrory signed HB 1220 into law in 2014. This law made it possible for patients diagnosed with intractable epilepsy to access and use low-THC hemp extract for medicinal purposes.
HB 1220 was amended by HB 766 in 2015 to increase the permitted THC limit from 0.3% to 0.9%. This amendment also decreased the legal CBD requirement from 10% to 5%. Also, the legal requirement for patients to be children was removed and access to qualified physicians and hospitals was expanded.
How much marijuana can I have in North Carolina? (in oz)
None. Except for CBD, the possession or consumption of marijuana in any form is prohibited across North Carolina.
Is Marijuana decriminalized in North Carolina?
Fortunately, small possessions of marijuana have been decriminalized in North Carolina. First-time offenders of small amounts face no risk of going to jail and only have to pay a fine.
Is there a fine or penalty for marijuana possession in North Carolina?
Yes. First-time possessions of marijuana under 0.5 ounces can attract a maximum fine of $200 as it is considered a Class C misdemeanor. Subsequent offenses could lead to more severe penalties.
How many cannabis plants per household in North Carolina?
Cannabis cultivation at home or commercially is still prohibited in the state.
North Carolina dispensaries regulations
There are currently no dispensaries in North Carolina since marijuana is still prohibited statewide.
North Carolina growers regulations
Commercial cultivation of marijuana is illegal in North Carolina.
Closing thoughts
Despite topping the leaderboard for tobacco sales nationwide, North Carolina still has problems with legalizing marijuana in any form. The state still has a negative stance towards marijuana and it’s not surprising that even though CBD is legal statewide, it’s still impossible to purchase or sell it from within. North Carolina cannabis advocates may have a hard time turning this around. However, the decriminalization of cannabis in the state offers a ray of hope.