Governor Josh Stein responded on April 2 to the approval of an interim report by the North Carolina Advisory Council on Cannabis. In his statement, Stein thanked the council members for their work and highlighted the importance of creating a regulated cannabis market focused on public health and safety.
The topic is significant as it addresses concerns about unregulated cannabis sales in North Carolina, which Stein described as lacking order. The governor said that a comprehensive approach is needed to protect young people and provide guidance for lawmakers.
“I would like to thank the members of the Cannabis Council for their expertise, hard work, and thoughtful deliberation. Last year, I charged this group with developing a comprehensive solution to the unregulated sale of cannabis that is grounded in public health and public safety, with a special focus on keeping young people safe. This report provides the General Assembly with guidance and makes clear that a well-regulated market, including both oversight and enforcement authority, is a safer market for our state,” Stein said.
He added: “Our state’s unregulated cannabis market today is the Wild West and is crying for order. Let’s get this right. Let’s protect our kids and create a safe, legal, and well-regulated market for adults.”
The Office of the Governor of North Carolina serves all residents across the state according to its official website. As chief executive, it executes state laws and leads the Council of State according to its official website. Josh Stein has served as North Carolina’s 76th governor according to its official website.
The office also influences policy through budget direction and granting pardons according to its official website, serves as commander in chief of the North Carolina National Guard, and appoints executive officials according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Governor Stein called on lawmakers to use guidance from this report when considering future legislation regarding cannabis regulation.