A new legislative effort is underway in North Carolina to legalize recreational marijuana use for adults. State Representative John Autry recently introduced a bill aimed at permitting adult-use cannabis statewide. If passed, the proposal would allow adults aged 21 and older to legally possess, consume, and purchase marijuana for recreational purposes.
The bill also emphasizes social equity, proposing measures to address the disproportionate impacts of marijuana prohibition on communities. It seeks to expunge past marijuana-related convictions, establish licensing programs prioritizing social equity applicants, and reinvest cannabis tax revenues into community development and public health initiatives.
While North Carolina has previously resisted cannabis legalization efforts, supporters of this latest bill remain optimistic about changing perspectives among lawmakers and voters alike. Advocates argue that legalization could provide significant economic benefits through job creation and increased tax revenues while reducing burdens on the criminal justice system.
The proposal now moves through the state’s legislative process, facing potential hurdles from traditionally conservative lawmakers. However, public sentiment around cannabis reform has shown steady support, suggesting momentum may be shifting in favor of legalization in the Tar Heel State.
