North Carolina Senate Votes to Legalize Medical Cannabis

By Anthony Martinelli

On June 20, 2024, the North Carolina Senate voted 33 to 9 to pass House Bill 563, which legalizes medical cannabis in the state. This legislation marks a significant shift in North Carolina’s cannabis policy, reflecting growing support for medical cannabis among the state’s residents and lawmakers.

Bill Details and Qualifying Conditions

House Bill 563 allows patients with specific qualifying medical conditions to possess and use medical cannabis with a physician’s recommendation. The qualifying conditions include:
– Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
– Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
– Crohn’s disease
– Sickle cell anemia
– Parkinson’s disease
– Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
– Multiple sclerosis
– Cachexia or wasting syndrome
– Severe or persistent nausea not related to pregnancy, particularly for those in hospice care or bedridden
– Terminal illnesses with a life expectancy of less than six months

Legislative Process and Future Prospects

The bill will undergo a third and final reading in the Senate before moving to the House of Representatives. If approved by the House, it will be sent to Governor Roy Cooper, who has expressed support for medical CBD legalization. The bill’s progress reflects strong public backing, with a Meredith College poll showing 78% of North Carolinians in favor of medical Cannabis legalization.

Challenges in the House

Despite the Senate’s approval, the bill’s future in the House remains uncertain. House Speaker Tim Moore has stated that at least 37 GOP members must support the bill for it to be brought to a floor vote. The speaker has shown personal support for medical cannabis but emphasized the need for majority backing within the Republican caucus.

Implications and Conclusion

If the bill becomes law, North Carolina will join the growing list of states allowing medical CBD use. The legislation aims to provide relief to patients with debilitating medical conditions while establishing a regulated medical CBD program.

For more detailed information, you can read the full article by Anthony Martinelli on The CBD Herald.

Additionally, CBD Moment provides further insights into the bill’s legislative journey and potential hurdles in the House of Representatives.