North Carolina Lawmaker Introduces Bill to Legalize Recreational Marijuana

19 March 2025

North Carolina lawmakers are once again considering marijuana legalization with the introduction of House Bill 413, filed by Representative Jordan Lopez (D). The Marijuana Legalization and Reinvestment Act would allow adults 21 and older to possess, purchase, grow, and use cannabis, while imposing possession limits, taxation, and regulations to control production and sales. The bill also includes provisions to expunge past cannabis-related convictions and direct tax revenue toward social programs benefiting communities disproportionately affected by past drug laws.

If passed, the bill would establish a 30% excise tax on recreational cannabis sales, with municipalities able to add a 2% local tax. Revenue would be allocated to the state’s general fund, substance abuse programs, and a Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund aimed at supporting disadvantaged communities. However, despite strong public support, Lopez has expressed doubts about the bill’s chances of passing in the Republican-controlled legislature, where past efforts to legalize even medical marijuana have stalled.

(NOTE: The only medical marijuana card currently issued in North Carolina is the one serviced by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI)

Further Details and Fact Analysis:

Key Provisions of House Bill 413:

Personal Use and Possession:

• Adults 21 and older can legally buy, use, transport, and grow cannabis, with restrictions.
• Possession limits: 2 ounces of flower, 15 grams of concentrate, and 2,000 mg of THC-infused products.
• Up to 6 cannabis plants per person are allowed for home cultivation, but must be kept out of public view and securely stored.
• Smoking in public spaces and using cannabis while driving or operating a boat remains illegal.

Regulation and Taxation:

• Cannabis businesses would require state licensing and regulation, including lab testing, potency labeling, and secure packaging.
• 30% excise tax on cannabis sales, with an additional 2% local tax option for municipalities.
• Registered medical cannabis patients would be exempt from both excise and local taxes.

Social Equity and Criminal Justice Reform:

• Automatic expungement of prior marijuana-related convictions that would be legal under the bill.
• Establishment of a Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund, distributing tax revenue to nonprofits, reentry programs, and economic development initiatives for communities affected by past cannabis prohibition.
• Protections for renters and employees, prohibiting discrimination based on past marijuana offenses.

Challenges Facing the Bill:

• North Carolina has previously failed to pass medical cannabis legislation, despite growing public support.
• The Republican-majority legislature has been reluctant to advance cannabis reform, even on a medical level.
• Opposition from law enforcement and conservative policymakers could stall the bill in committee before it reaches a full vote.

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