Hemp is Permanently Legalized in North Carolina

Introduction to the NC Hemp Industry

Hemp is a versatile plant with many applications, from textiles and biofuels to health supplements. In recent years, hemp has experienced significant legal changes, particularly in North Carolina. In this blog post, we'll chart the journey of hemp's legality in North Carolina, examining its evolution, present circumstances, and promising future.

Hemp's Historical Legal Struggles

Historically, hemp faced immense legal restrictions due to its association with marijuana. Misunderstandings about hemp's non-intoxicating nature led to its classification as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, making it illegal. However, with the introduction of the 2014 Farm Bill, hemp cultivation for research purposes was allowed, marking the beginning of a shift in the federal perspective. North Carolina took note, passing Senate Bill 313 in 2015, which permitted the North Carolina Industrial Hemp Commission to develop rules and licensing structures necessary for hemp farming.

A Major Milestone: The 2018 Farm Bill and North Carolina's Response

The 2018 Farm Bill represented a milestone for hemp legality. It declassified hemp from the Controlled Substances Act's list of Schedule I substances, transforming it into an agricultural commodity. This bill bolstered North Carolina's hemp pilot program, inviting a surge of licensed hemp farmers. Following this, North Carolina further solidified hemp's legal status on June 30th, 2022, when Governor Roy Cooper signed a bill legalizing hemp cultivation in the state, transitioning from a pilot program to a permanent one. The law also explicitly legalized the sale of smokable hemp, which had previously been a gray area.

The Current Landscape: Hemp is Here to Stay

Hemp is permanently legal to grow in North Carolina, underpinning its status as a vital agricultural commodity. This permanency provides stability for farmers and businesses interested in hemp cultivation and producing hemp-derived products, including CBD. Hemp-derived CBD products are also legal in the state, provided they contain less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC by dry weight. However, it's important to note that the FDA still needs to allow the inclusion of CBD in food, beverages, or dietary supplements, leading to potential confusion for retailers and consumers.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Hemp Legality in NC

The future looks bright, given hemp's firm legal standing in North Carolina. The state is poised to capitalize on the diverse applications of hemp, from textiles and biofuels to health supplements. Further developments in federal legislation, particularly around CBD, will be instrumental in shaping the state's hemp landscape. The passing of Senate Bill 711, which aims to establish a medical cannabis program in North Carolina, currently languishes in the state's House of Representatives. Its eventual passing would mark another significant shift in the state's cannabis legislation, further delineating the boundary between hemp and its psychoactive counterpart.

Conclusion

Legal hurdles, changes in perception, and burgeoning opportunities mark the path of hemp legality in North Carolina. Today, North Carolina stands at the forefront of hemp production, eagerly awaiting further advancements in federal legislation. As we move forward, the vision for a state where hemp is widely accepted, understood, and utilized becomes clearer. Through the lens of North Carolina's evolving legislation, the vibrant tapestry of the hemp industry continues with innovation, economic progress, and sustainable growth.