As of now, North Carolina has not legalized medical or recreational cannabis. However, there are ongoing legislative efforts and growing public support for reform, especially in the area of medical cannabis.

In North Carolina, possession of small amounts of cannabis is currently decriminalized to some extent. Possession of half an ounce or less is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $200. Possession of more than half an ounce up to 1.5 ounces also constitutes a misdemeanor but includes potential incarceration of up to 45 days and a fine of up to $1,000. Possession of more than 1.5 ounces becomes a felony, with up to 8 months of incarceration and a $1,000 fine.

Legislative Efforts: NC Compassionate Care Act: The most notable legislative effort is the NC Compassionate Care Act, which has seen some movement through the state senate. The bill aims to establish a regulated medical cannabis program in North Carolina. Here are key points from the bill:

• Qualifying Conditions: The act defines “debilitating medical conditions” as including cancer, epilepsy, HIV/AIDS, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and PTSD.
• Medical Marijuana Suppliers: The bill would allow up to 10 suppliers that control the cultivation and sale of cannabis, with each supplier permitted to open four retail dispensaries.
• Patient Possession Limits: Patients would be allowed to possess up to one and a half ounces of cannabis; however, home cultivation would not be permitted.
• Product Types: The legislation would allow specific infused products as well as products for smoking and vaping.

Potential Licenses and Regulations: While specific types of licenses and their costs are not detailed until the legislation is passed and the program is established, it’s expected that North Carolina would create several categories of licenses, similar to other states with medical cannabis programs. These might include licenses for cultivation, manufacturing, dispensing, and possibly laboratory testing.