From 'Wild West' to Regulated Market: How S265 Aligns with North Carolina's Cannabis Goals

North Carolina’s cannabis landscape has long been compared to the “wild west”—an unregulated market where hemp-derived THC products are sold without age checks, quality control, or clear labeling. As consumer demand grows and public safety concerns mount, lawmakers and advocates alike are pushing for reform. While Governor Josh Stein recently launched a Cannabis Advisory Council to explore the state’s next steps, Senate Bill 265 (S265) already presents a clear, immediate path forward—one that directly aligns with the goals outlined by the Governor himself.

The Problem: A Market Without Guardrails

The rise of intoxicating hemp-derived products like Delta-8 and Delta-10 has outpaced existing regulations in North Carolina. These products are often sold in convenience stores, gas stations, and vape shops—sometimes without restrictions on age, dosage, or labeling.

Governor Stein has described this environment as the “wild west” of cannabis sales, and he’s not wrong. Without a clear framework, the current marketplace poses risks to children, undermines consumer trust, and makes enforcement nearly impossible.

The Governor’s Plan: A Long-Term Strategy

On June 4, 2025, Governor Stein signed Executive Order No. 316, establishing the North Carolina Advisory Council on Cannabis. This 24-member council will examine a wide range of issues including youth prevention, criminal justice reform, economic equity, public health, and potential legalization pathways. The goal is to create a comprehensive policy framework—one that protects public health, fosters fairness, and supports safe access to cannabis products.

But this process is just beginning, with recommendations not expected until the end of 2026. Meanwhile, the unregulated sale of THC products continues across the state.

The Immediate Fix: What S265 Offers Right Now

Senate Bill 265, known as the "Protecting Our Community Act," was introduced months before the Governor’s executive order. It takes direct action on many of the very concerns the Advisory Council is tasked with investigating.

Here’s how S265 aligns with the state’s cannabis goals:

• Youth Protection
  S265 prohibits the sale of hemp-derived products to anyone under 21, addressing the Governor’s top concern about youth access.

• Public Safety & Product Quality
  The bill mandates product testing for heavy metals, pesticides, and THC concentration limits, creating safeguards for consumers.

• Clear Marketing & Labeling Guidelines
  By banning cartoon characters, candy-like packaging, and deceptive advertising, S265 reduces the appeal of intoxicating products to minors and supports informed purchasing.

• Regulatory Structure
  The bill requires licensing for manufacturers, distributors, and retailers—giving the state oversight and enforcement capabilities.

• Legal Consistency
  S265 reinforces the difference between legal hemp-derived products and marijuana, helping law enforcement and businesses operate with clarity.

Why Wait?

The Governor’s Advisory Council is an important step toward long-term cannabis reform, especially if North Carolina considers full legalization in the future. But the issues of youth access, public safety, and unregulated products are urgent. S265 offers a practical, enforceable solution that could be implemented now—while the council conducts deeper research and engages the public in policy conversations.

Complementary, Not Competing

This isn’t a matter of either/or. Senate Bill 265 and the Governor’s cannabis council can—and should—work in tandem. While the council sets the stage for broad, visionary reform, S265 delivers the tools needed to immediately bring order to the chaos.

By advancing both, North Carolina can shift from a "wild west" market to a well-regulated, safe, and responsible cannabis industry—one that protects consumers, promotes fairness, and prepares the state for what’s next.