Is Medical Marijuana Coming to North Carolina?

As of March 2025, North Carolina remains among the few states without a legalized medical marijuana program. Despite numerous legislative efforts and strong public support, medical marijuana has yet to be approved in the state. The journey toward legalization has been marked by repeated attempts and setbacks, reflecting a complex interplay of political, social, and medical considerations.

Legislative Efforts and Public Sentiment

In recent years, North Carolina has seen significant legislative activity aimed at legalizing medical marijuana. In 2023, the North Carolina Senate passed the North Carolina Compassionate Care Act (Senate Bill 3) with bipartisan support. This bill sought to permit the use of medical marijuana for patients with specific debilitating conditions, including cancer, epilepsy, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite its passage in the Senate, the bill stalled in the House of Representatives and did not become law.

Public opinion in North Carolina has consistently favored the legalization of medical marijuana. A Meredith College poll conducted in early 2025 indicated that 71% of North Carolina voters support the passage of a medical marijuana bill, with 45% expressing strong support. This reflects a slight decrease from 2024, when 78% supported legalization, suggesting a potential shift in public sentiment or polling variations.

Current Legal Status and Decriminalization

Currently, both recreational and medical marijuana use remains illegal in North Carolina. However, the state has enacted limited decriminalization measures. Possession of up to 0.5 ounces of marijuana is classified as a Class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $200 but not by jail time. Possession of larger amounts can lead to more severe penalties, including felony charges.

The Southeastern United States has traditionally been cautious regarding marijuana legalization. However, neighboring states have begun to adopt more progressive stances. For instance, Virginia legalized medical marijuana in 2020 and has since moved toward recreational legalization. South Carolina has introduced medical marijuana bills, though none have been enacted as of yet. This regional shift may influence North Carolina's future legislative decisions.

The Case for Medical Marijuana in North Carolina

Advocates for medical marijuana in North Carolina emphasize its therapeutic benefits, as it has been shown to relieve symptoms of chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. For many patients, traditional treatments may not be effective or come with unwanted side effects, making medical marijuana a valuable alternative. Beyond its medical benefits, legalization also presents economic opportunities, creating jobs in cultivation, distribution, and retail while generating tax revenue that could support public health, education, and infrastructure.

Legalization would also support criminal justice reform by reducing non-violent drug offenses and easing the burden on the legal system. Many patients currently risk legal consequences by accessing marijuana through unregulated sources. A well-regulated medical marijuana program would ensure patients receive safe, lab-tested products while allowing law enforcement to focus on more serious crimes.

If North Carolina approves medical marijuana, obtaining a medical marijuana card will be essential. A card will provide legal protection, allowing patients to access marijuana safely without fear of prosecution. It would also ensure access to regulated products and medical guidance from healthcare professionals. For those seeking alternative treatments, securing a medical marijuana card will be the safest and most effective way to obtain marijuana once the program is in place.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the potential benefits, several challenges must be addressed to implement a successful medical marijuana program in North Carolina. One of the biggest hurdles is establishing a regulatory framework to oversee cultivation, distribution, and sales. A well-structured system is crucial to ensuring product safety, compliance, and consumer protection while preventing illegal market activity.

Another key factor is healthcare provider involvement. Educating doctors and medical professionals about medical marijuana is essential to ensuring informed patient access. Physicians must be equipped with the knowledge to guide patients on proper use, dosages, and potential interactions with other medications. Without their support, access to medical marijuana could remain limited even after legalization.

Public health and safety concerns also need to be addressed. Safeguards must be put in place to prevent misuse, particularly among minors, while also ensuring that impaired driving laws are enforced. A well-regulated medical marijuana program must strike a balance between providing patients with needed treatment and maintaining public safety.

Looking Ahead

The path to legalizing medical marijuana in North Carolina is complex and multifaceted, involving legislative action, public opinion, and careful consideration of public health implications. While significant progress has been made, with strong public support and legislative efforts, the final steps toward legalization require continued advocacy, education, and dialogue among all stakeholders.

As neighboring states move forward with medical marijuana programs and public opinion continues to favor legalization, North Carolina stands at a crossroads. The decisions made in the coming months and years will determine whether patients in the state will have access to the therapeutic benefits of medical marijuana and whether the state will capitalize on the economic and social advantages associated with its legalization.

While medical marijuana is not yet legal in North Carolina, the momentum toward change is evident. The combination of public support, legislative efforts, and regional trends suggests that medical marijuana could become a reality in the state in the near future. For patients seeking alternative treatments, healthcare providers, and policymakers, staying informed and engaged in this evolving landscape is essential.

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!

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!