North Carolina Republicans Push Hemp Ban Over 0.3% THC as House Vote Still Unscheduled
Updated
Updated · WRAL News · Aug 4
North Carolina Republicans Push Hemp Ban Over 0.3% THC as House Vote Still Unscheduled
3 articles · Updated · WRAL News · Aug 4
Summary
Hundreds of protesters filled the North Carolina legislature Tuesday as Republican lawmakers and dozens of sheriffs, police chiefs and prosecutors pressed for final passage of House Bill 328.
The measure would largely ban intoxicating hemp gummies, drinks and vapes, cap products at 0.3% THC by dry weight or 0.4 milligrams per serving, and set a minimum sales age of 21.
Law enforcement backers said current rules let children buy potent products freely, displaying items marketed like candy and citing products labeled with 1,000 milligrams or more of THC.
Hemp businesses said they support age limits but oppose the near-total ban, arguing the multibillion-dollar industry employs thousands and that regulation, testing and licensing would protect minors without wiping out stores.
Gov. Josh Stein backs age restrictions but opposes the broad ban and warned Kratom could fill the gap; even so, the bill had not been scheduled for a House vote by Tuesday afternoon.