RALEIGH, NC — North Carolina Governor Josh Stein (D) has voiced clear support for cannabis decriminalization and adult-use legalization, while announcing the formation of a new advisory council on cannabis policy. In an interview with WRAL News, Stein described the state’s current landscape of unregulated THC products as “the wild, wild West.”
“Right now it’s so unregulated, it’s a chaotic market,” Stein said. “But I want to take it piece by piece.”
The newly created cannabis policy council will bring together stakeholders from across the political spectrum and public sectors to develop a responsible path forward. That includes Republican and Democratic legislators, public health advocates, and public safety officials, aiming to bring structure and safety to the market.
A Push for Order and Oversight
While North Carolina doesn’t have a recreational cannabis program, Stein argued the state effectively operates as “the most liberal, pro-marijuana, adult-use state in the country”—but without any rules. He criticized the lack of regulation around intoxicating hemp-derived THC products, calling it “insane” that these items are currently sold with no age restrictions, no consistent labeling, and no oversight.
“You’ve got a drug that can get you high, available with zero protections for kids,” Stein said. “With alcohol, we ensure it’s not sold to anyone under 21. We need that same responsibility here.”
Criminal Justice Reform in Focus
In addition to regulatory reform, Stein is also backing criminal justice reform around cannabis. He emphasized the need to expunge criminal records for low-level cannabis convictions—records that, he said, “act like an anchor,” harming people’s chances of securing jobs, housing, or education.
“We should be decriminalizing it,” Stein said. “But I want to go to the next level where if you use it, it’s not a crime at all.”
His comments align with growing national sentiment that cannabis convictions—especially for minor possession—should not carry lifelong consequences.
Partisan Divide Slows Progress
So far, meaningful cannabis reform in North Carolina has been stalled by political gridlock. Stein pointed out how the House has focused on regulating vape shops, while the Senate has pursued medical cannabis legislation, leading to a lack of unified progress.
Stein said the goal of his cannabis advisory council is to bring everyone to the same table and hash out a policy framework that works for public health, public safety, and the cannabis industry alike.
What’s Next for North Carolina?
As other states continue to legalize and regulate cannabis, North Carolina may soon join the ranks—but it’s clear the path will require strategic collaboration and careful planning.
Stein’s leadership, along with a dedicated cannabis policy council, may finally help the state move out of what he calls “chaos” and into a structured, legal cannabis environment.
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