SB265: The Bill That Could Save North Carolina’s Hemp Industry

The future of North Carolina’s hemp industry is at a critical juncture. With regulatory uncertainty threatening farmers, retailers, and thousands of jobs, Senate Bill 265 (SB265) stands out as a vital, solution-driven piece of legislation. Backed by the North Carolina Hemp Association Alliance (NCHAA), SB265 isn’t just another bill making its rounds in the legislature. It’s the lifeline the industry needs—but only if North Carolinians make their voices heard.

Why Is North Carolina’s Hemp Industry at Risk?

North Carolina’s hemp industry supports over a thousand growers, small business owners, and countless workers. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp at the federal level, but left gaps in regulation that states must bridge. Some policymakers in North Carolina have proposed harsh new restrictions on products like CBD and other hemp-derived cannabinoids. If passed, these restrictions would:

• Make it nearly impossible for local hemp farmers to stay in business

• Wipe out access to responsible, regulated hemp products for consumers

• Lead to job losses and economic setbacks across rural communities

With confusion and misinformation swirling, many in the state are unsure which bills genuinely protect public health without smothering an entire sector.

Enter SB265: A Balanced Approach for North Carolina

SB265 is the product of months of research, farmer discussions, and expert input. Crafted with backing from the NCHAA and industry leaders, this bill provides clarity and protection for both consumers and hemp businesses. Here’s what sets SB265 apart:

Key Features of SB265

• Clear Definitions 

 Provides unambiguous legal definitions for hemp, CBD, and other cannabinoids, eliminating regulatory gray areas.

• Age Restrictions & Responsible Sales 

 Ensures sales of hemp-derived products are limited to adults 21 and over, aligning with practices for alcohol and tobacco for consumer safety.

• Lab Testing & Labeling 

 Requires thorough third-party lab testing for potency and contaminants. All products must carry accurate, transparent labels regarding cannabinoid content and ingredients.

• Licensing & Oversight 

 Establishes a straightforward licensing process for hemp businesses and creates oversight mechanisms to maintain industry integrity.

• Consumer Protection 

 Prohibits the sale of products designed or packaged to appeal to children or mislead buyers.

• Support for NC Farmers 

 Protects the livelihood of local farmers by ensuring hemp can continue to be grown, processed, and sold responsibly within the state.

Why SB265 Works

SB265 avoids the pitfalls of overreaching anti-hemp proposals by taking a balanced, science-based approach. Here’s how the bill benefits North Carolina:

• Protects Jobs and Small Businesses 

 By allowing a legal, regulated hemp market to flourish, the bill keeps revenue local and defends more than a thousand NC-based jobs.

• Promotes Public Safety 

 With robust testing, age limits, and labeling, consumers gain peace of mind, while irresponsible operators are kept in check.

• Prevents Black Market Growth 

 Overly harsh bans drive responsible products underground. SB265 maintains transparency and legal compliance across the supply chain.

• Supports Agriculture and Rural Economies 

 Farms, especially in rural areas, can continue to diversify their crops and stay profitable. This stability uplifts entire communities.

• Reflects Real Industry Expertise 

 The bill is a direct result of consultation with farmers, business owners, scientists, and public health officials—not just politicians.

SB265 vs. Other Proposals

While some lawmakers advocate for broad bans on edibles and strict limits on THC levels, SB265 targets real concerns without dismantling the industry. Compare the differences:

Take Action: Your Voice Matters

Laws don’t pass on their own. The future of responsible hemp access in North Carolina depends on action from the people it affects most. Here’s how you can help change the outcome:

How to Contact Your NC Senator:

• Find Your Senator: 

 Visit the NC General Assembly website and enter your address to find your senator’s contact information.

• Call or Email: 

 – State your support for SB265. 

 – Share your connection to the hemp industry (as a farmer, retailer, advocate, or consumer).

 – Explain how losing access to hemp products would impact you and your community.

• Share Data and Stories: 

 Personal accounts from businesses and individuals speak volumes. Include specific ways SB265 protects jobs, supports farmers, or addresses health and safety.

• Spread the Word: 

 Use your social platforms, participate in advocacy campaigns led by NCHAA, and encourage others in your network to get involved.

Protect North Carolina’s Hemp Future

The hemp industry is woven into North Carolina’s agricultural and business landscape. SB265 offers a responsible, realistic path forward—preserving vital economic opportunities while prioritizing consumer safety and transparency.

Don’t leave the industry’s fate to chance or confusion. Support SB265 by contacting your senator and sharing accurate information within your community. Every email and phone call counts. Together, we can ensure NC’s hemp future remains bright.