A New Hope: The Cannabis Treatment Research Act

Filed in the North Carolina House of Representatives, the Cannabis Treatment Research Act (H.B. 984) is the latest attempt to legalize medical marijuana in the state. Sponsored by Rep. Julia Greenfield and backed by five other Democratic lawmakers, this bill introduces a research-focused medical marijuana program designed to help patients while advancing scientific understanding of marijuana’s therapeutic benefits.

The proposal would allow patients and caregivers to register with the state and legally possess up to 1.5 ounces of marijuana. However, patients must be enrolled in a registered research study conducted by an approved institution, such as a hospital, university, pharmaceutical company, or private medical research organization.

The bill’s goal is to establish a Cannabis Treatment Research Database under the Department of Health and Human Services, creating a structured framework for studying the benefits of medical marijuana while providing relief for patients.

Key Provisions of the Bill

Here are some highlights of the Cannabis Treatment Research Act:

• Legal Possession: Registered patients and caregivers could legally possess up to 1.5 ounces of marijuana.

• Research-Focused Access: To qualify, patients must be part of a registered medical marijuana study.

• No Specific Age Limit: While caregivers must be at least 18, there is no set age for patients, as long as they are enrolled in a study.

• Physician’s Recommendation Required: Patients need a signed statement from a physician confirming that the health benefits of marijuana outweigh the risks for their qualifying medical condition. That’s where we’d come in!

This bill aims to balance patient access with the need for scientific research, offering a structured approach to medical marijuana legalization.

Is This Bill Enough?

While the Cannabis Treatment Research Act represents progress, many advocates argue that it’s only a half-measure. By limiting access to those enrolled in research studies, the bill could leave many patients with debilitating conditions without the relief they need.

“It is time for the North Carolina House of Representatives to go on record with a vote on a comprehensive compassionate care bill,” said Kevin Caldwell, Southeast legislative manager for the Marijuana Policy Project. “Patients deserve more than limited research access.”

The question now is whether lawmakers will expand this proposal or introduce a more comprehensive bill that provides broader access to medical marijuana for patients throughout North Carolina.

Public Support for Medical Marijuana in North Carolina

If there’s one thing that’s clear, it’s that North Carolinians are ready for medical marijuana. A February 2025 poll found that 71% of likely voters in the state support legalizing medical marijuana, with support spanning across party lines and demographics.

This widespread backing reflects a growing recognition of the therapeutic benefits of marijuana for conditions like chronic nausea, PTSD, epilepsy, and symptoms associated with cancer. North Carolina is currently surrounded by states with medical marijuana programs, including Virginia and Kentucky, which has only increased the demand for similar access.

Why Getting a Medical Marijuana Card Will Matter in North Carolina

Medical marijuana will come to North Carolina sooner than later! When medical marijuana legalization does pass, having a medical marijuana card will be essential. Here’s why:

1. Legal Access and Protection

A medical marijuana card ensures that patients can legally purchase and possess marijuana from licensed dispensaries. Without it, possession remains illegal in North Carolina, even for medical purposes.

2. Safe, Regulated Products

Purchasing from licensed dispensaries means patients will have access to lab-tested, high-quality marijuana products that meet safety standards. This is critical for individuals using marijuana as medicine, ensuring accurate dosing and consistent results.

3. Tailored Treatment Options

With a medical marijuana card, patients can access a wider range of product types specifically designed for therapeutic use. These products can be customized to meet individual health needs.

The Road Ahead

The introduction of the Cannabis Treatment Research Act adds another chapter to North Carolina’s ongoing push for medical marijuana legalization. While similar bills have cleared the state Senate in recent years, thanks in large part to advocates like Sen. Bill Rabon, a cancer survivor and strong supporter, they’ve consistently stalled in the House. This year could be different. Senate President Phil Berger has expressed openness to reform, while House Speaker Destin Hall has suggested Republicans may be more receptive to medical marijuana legislation in this session.

Alongside Cannabis Treatment Research Act, additional proposals are expected during the 2025 session, including broader medical marijuana programs and even adult-use legalization. With 71% of voters in favor and lawmakers signaling flexibility, the momentum behind marijuana reform in North Carolina is growing. As one of the few states in the region without a medical program, pressure continues to mount for action.

While legalization hasn’t arrived yet, Cannabis Treatment Research Act shows progress is being made. Whether this research-based bill passes or leads to a more comprehensive solution, now is the time for potential patients to stay informed. When medical marijuana becomes legal, getting your medical marijuana card will ensure safe, legal access to products designed to improve your health and well-being, and that’s where we will come in! Stay tuned; we’ll be here to guide you through the process when the time comes.

Get Ready for Medical Marijuana

Although medical marijuana is still not legal in North Carolina, it may be legalized soon! You should be sure you are prepared for the program to become operational as soon as possible. In order to do this, you will need to get your medical marijuana card.

Reserve an evaluation online today, and we’ll book an appointment for you with one of our compassionate doctors just as soon as North Carolina’s medical marijuana market is fully operational.

You and your new doctor will meet virtually, using your smartphone, tablet, or computer for a telemedicine appointment. You’ll learn all about how medical marijuana may be able to help your conditions, without even leaving the comfort and safety of your own home. And you’ll even save $25 off the cost of the evaluation!

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Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

Helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

If you have any questions, call us at (833) 781-7320, or simply reserve a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!