North Carolina Lawmaker Proposes Legalizing Marijuana, but Faces Uncertainty
A new bill filed in the North Carolina legislature aims to legalize marijuana for recreational use, but its chances of passing remain uncertain. Representative Jordan Lopez, a Democrat from Mecklenburg County, introduced House Bill 413, which would allow individuals 21 and older to purchase and use marijuana.
The proposed legislation includes several restrictions, such as requiring marijuana to be grown out of public view, prohibiting smoking in public or while driving, and allowing landlords to ban marijuana smoking on their properties.
A key component of the bill is a 30% excise tax on marijuana sales, with 25% of the revenue going towards the “Reinvestment and Repair Fund.” This fund would support organizations helping individuals affected by poverty, unemployment, mass incarceration, and systemic racism. The remaining 5% would be allocated to the state’s general fund.
Lopez, who has received widespread support from his constituents, believes the bill would have a significant impact on his district. He hopes it would help address the disproportionate effects of the war on drugs on black and brown communities.
“We know that the war on drugs has disproportionately affected black and brown communities,” Lopez said. “Ensuring that when they get out, they can get back on their feet is crucial. We want to stop the pattern of recidivism and provide opportunities for folks to build better lives.”
The bill also includes provisions to erase past cannabis-related convictions and prohibit discrimination in employment and housing based on prior cannabis offenses. Municipalities would have the option to add an additional 2% local tax, but medical cannabis would be exempt from these taxes.
While this is not the first time a bill has been filed to legalize marijuana in North Carolina, Lopez is not optimistic about its chances of passage. Despite public support, he believes the bill may face opposition from lawmakers.
“It’s a conversation that’s worth having, but unfortunately, I’m not super confident that we’ll even have the opportunity to have that,” Lopez said.
If the bill is passed, it would go into effect in 2028.
