North Carolina Senator's Bill Would Put Marijuana Legalization on the November Ballot

A new bill introduced in the North Carolina Senate could give voters the opportunity to decide the future of marijuana legalization in the state. Senate Bill 1072, introduced by Senator Bobby Hanig of Currituck County, would place two marijuana-related constitutional amendments on the November 2026 ballot if approved by the General Assembly.

The proposal comes as lawmakers continue debating marijuana reform in North Carolina. The state does not currently have a medical marijuana program, and recreational marijuana remains illegal. Several medical marijuana bills have been introduced in recent years, but none have become law.

What Would Senate Bill 1072 Do?

Rather than directly legalizing marijuana through legislation, Senate Bill 1072 would allow North Carolina voters to decide the issue through two separate constitutional amendments.

The first amendment would ask voters whether they support decriminalizing the possession of limited amounts of marijuana for personal use. The second amendment would ask voters whether they support allowing medical marijuana for patients with qualifying medical conditions.

If a majority of voters approve the amendments, lawmakers would then be required to create laws and regulations to implement the changes. The bill itself does not establish possession limits, create dispensaries, or set up a medical marijuana program. Instead, it would direct the General Assembly to develop those details after voter approval.

Why Is This Bill Significant?

For years, North Carolina lawmakers have introduced medical marijuana bills that have gained support in the Senate but failed to advance in the House. By placing the issue directly before voters, supporters hope to bypass some of the legislative roadblocks that have prevented marijuana reform from moving forward.

Supporters of the measure argue that North Carolina residents should have the opportunity to decide marijuana policy themselves. Polls have consistently shown strong support for medical marijuana in the state, and many neighboring states like Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky have already implemented medical marijuana programs.

What Happens Next?

Before voters can weigh in, Senate Bill 1072 must first pass both the North Carolina Senate and House of Representatives. Because the proposal would amend the state constitution, it would then be placed on the statewide ballot for the November 2026 election.

If voters approve the amendments, lawmakers would need to establish rules regarding possession limits, licensing, patient qualifications, dispensaries, product regulations, and other program details.

This means that even if voters approve the measures in November, marijuana would not automatically become legal right away. Additional legislation would still be required before a medical marijuana program could begin operating.

Where Does North Carolina Currently Stand on Marijuana?

At this time, North Carolina has not legalized medical or recreational marijuana, though lawmakers continue to discuss potential reforms.

Recent efforts to legalize medical marijuana have come close to becoming law but have ultimately stalled before reaching the governor's desk. Meanwhile, state leaders continue discussing possible regulations for hemp-derived THC products and broader marijuana policy reforms.

Governor Josh Stein has also established a state advisory council to study marijuana regulations and provide recommendations for future legislation, highlighting the growing attention the issue is receiving across North Carolina.

What Could This Mean for North Carolina Residents?

If Senate Bill 1072 advances, North Carolina voters could have a direct voice in shaping the state's marijuana laws for the first time. A successful vote could pave the way for both medical marijuana access for qualified patients and broader changes to personal marijuana possession laws.

For now, the proposal is still in the early stages of the legislative process. Residents interested in marijuana reform should continue monitoring developments as lawmakers debate whether the measure will make it onto the November ballot.

In the meantime, North Carolina residents interested in medical marijuana can reserve an appointment with our team at North Carolina Marijuana Card. When North Carolina's medical marijuana program becomes available, you'll be among the first to be evaluated by a registered medical marijuana doctor and will receive $25 off your evaluation.

Looking Ahead

Senate Bill 1072 represents the most significant marijuana reform proposal introduced in North Carolina this year. While there is still a long path before voters could see the measure on their ballots, the bill reflects growing discussions about both medical marijuana and broader marijuana acceptance across the state.

If the legislation moves forward, North Carolina voters could have the opportunity in November 2026 to decide whether the state should begin building a legal framework for medical marijuana.

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!