Hemp-derived products have become big business in North Carolina. The state has earned a reputation as one of the most lenient when it comes to regulating psychoactive hemp products. Dispensaries, bars, and even pizza shops across North Carolina can legally sell hemp-based goods—even those producing a recreational high. However, new legislation may soon bring big changes to how these products are made, sold, and who can buy them.

Why North Carolina Hemp Regulation Is Under the Microscope

North Carolina is unique. While marijuana remains illegal for any use, hemp products—even ones mimicking marijuana’s effects—have flourished due to minimal regulation. This has created a marketplace where nearly anything goes, leading to easy access for people of almost any age.

Experts believe this “wild west” approach has made the state a hotspot for hemp businesses but has also raised concerns about public safety and youth access. Shifting North Carolina hemp regulation is now a major focus of lawmakers.

What’s in the Proposed North Carolina Hemp Regulation Bill?

A new bill submitted by State Senators Todd Johnson, Danny Britt, and Michael Lazzara aims to restructure the state’s approach to psychoactive hemp products. If passed, the North Carolina hemp regulation bill would:

• Ban sales of consumable hemp-derived products to anyone under 21
• Make it illegal for anyone under 21 to possess these products
• Prohibit these products on school grounds
• Require testing for heavy metals, pesticides, and toxins
• Mandate licensing for all manufacturers, sellers, and distributors of hemp products in North Carolina
• Limit home-based hemp manufacturing

These changes would create clear age restrictions and higher safety standards for the industry.

How Hemp Products Skirted Oversight Until Now

Back in 2022, North Carolina revised its controlled substances list to align state law with federal guidelines. This declassified hemp products containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. However, hemp includes over 100 other cannabinoids, many of which, like delta-8 and delta-10 THC, are also psychoactive but remain unregulated.

This lack of oversight has allowed products with marijuana-like effects to flourish, spurring current calls for reform.

“North Carolina is widely perceived to be the best hemp state in the country due to its long history with hemp and also its support for the hemp industry,” noted Rod Kight, a cannabis advocate and lawyer, in a recent blog post. He added, “The state’s hemp-friendly laws have turned it into a hub for leading businesses in this sector” (source).

The Impact on Businesses and Consumers

The proposed North Carolina hemp regulation bill is set to shake up both large and small producers. Major players, like Asterra Labs, run pharmaceutical-grade facilities and would likely be able to comply with the new rules, even if it costs more.

However, the bill targets backyard and home-based hemp manufacturing, which could remove many “mom-and-pop” shops from the market. By raising standards for testing and packaging, and instituting licensing fees, the industry could see consolidation, with only well-resourced businesses able to continue operating.

With clear limits on psychoactive ingredients and mandatory safety testing, consumers will likely see more transparent, clearly labelled products. This should help buyers make informed decisions and reduce their exposure to untested substances.

Dosage and Product Limits Under the New Law

At present, there are no real limits on how much of a psychoactive cannabinoid can be in a hemp product in North Carolina. This includes substances like delta-7, delta-8, delta-9, and delta-10 THC.

The proposed legislation changes all that. Under the new rules:

• Edible products (like gummies) may only contain up to 75mg combined of delta-7, delta-8, delta-9, or delta-10 THC per serving.
• Liquid products (like infused drinks) can hold no more than 25mg per serving.

Phil Dixon, a professor at UNC’s School of Government, likened the current market to a “wild west.” He explained, “The lack of regulation, especially around psychoactive components, has made it difficult to ensure public safety” (source).

These North Carolina hemp regulation changes are designed to restrict excessive dosing and improve consumer safety.

Why Lawmakers Want to Act Now

North Carolina’s light regulations have allowed a rapid growth of the psychoactive hemp market. Restaurants, shops, and even some mainstream grocery stores openly sell products with weed-like effects. With few checks in place, minors and vulnerable groups could easily access these items.

Senator Todd Johnson and his colleagues are pushing for North Carolina hemp regulation to provide the same guardrails found in other industries that handle intoxicating substances. Limiting who sells and buys these products, setting dosage limits, and demanding safety tests are all steps to tighten control and reduce potential harm.

The Wider Context of Hemp Policy in North Carolina

Attorney and cannabis advocate Rod Kight has praised the proposed legislation for balancing industry support and consumer safety. He points out that this approach sets North Carolina apart from other states, ensuring both the future of the industry and the wellbeing of state residents.

However, some concerns remain. For example, while the bill sets limits for certain cannabinoids, it does not address all psychoactive substances present in hemp. Ongoing review may be needed to ensure the legislation keeps up with new product developments.

What’s Next for the North Carolina Hemp Industry?

If the North Carolina hemp regulation bill becomes law, it will fundamentally change the hemp landscape. Higher safety standards, strict age limits, detailed labelling, and regulated doses mean only responsible businesses will thrive.

Consumers need to be aware of the upcoming changes. If you buy hemp-based products, check labels, ask about safety testing, and always verify the seller’s credentials. For parents, knowing the legal limits and keeping products away from underage family members will become ever more important.

Key Takeaways for Residents and Businesses

• The days of easy access to unchecked psychoactive hemp products could soon be over.
• Strict North Carolina hemp regulation is moving forward, focusing on consumer safety, transparency, and responsible access.
• Age restrictions, testing mandates, and supply chain rules will reduce the risk of unregulated sales.
• Businesses will need to upgrade their facilities and practices to remain compliant.
• Consumers and parents should stay mindful of new rules and choose products from licensed, reputable sources.

Source: Axios