Governor Josh Stein responded on Apr. 2 to the approval of an interim report by the North Carolina Advisory Council on Cannabis. In his statement, Stein thanked the members of the Cannabis Council for their expertise and efforts, and emphasized the importance of regulating cannabis sales in North Carolina.
The issue is significant as it addresses concerns about public health and safety related to unregulated cannabis sales in the state. The governor highlighted that a well-regulated market could provide better oversight and enforcement, which he said would make North Carolina safer.
“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 continued: “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 officer, 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 governor’s office also directs policy through budget management and granting pardons according to its official website, while serving as commander in chief of the National Guard with authority over executive appointments according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Governor Stein urged lawmakers to use guidance from this interim report as they consider legislation regarding cannabis regulation.
