North Carolina lawmakers are advancing a bill to regulate hemp THC products and restrict kratom. The bill defines hemp-derived cannabinoids, limits sales to adults 21 and older, and would ban hemp-derived consumables on educational property. Retailers would need a license, and producers could face penalties for violations. The bill also addresses kratom, adding it to the list of controlled substances. The measure won unanimous support in committees and moves to the Judiciary Committee.

North Carolina Advances Bill Regulating Hemp THC and Restricting Kratom

Jun 17, 2025

Source:

Marijuana Moment

North Carolina is finally moving to clean up the "wild west" of its hemp market. Lawmakers just fast-tracked House Bill 328, a rare bipartisan effort to regulate hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-9. If passed, you’ll need to be at least 21 to buy these products, and shops will need official licenses to keep operating. The bill also cracks down on flashy, kid-friendly packaging and bans these items from school grounds. Interestingly, the proposal also aims to list kratom as a controlled substance, signaling a much tighter grip on alternative herbals.

For the everyday toker, this is actually a win for safety and consistency. While more rules can feel like a buzzkill, official oversight means you’re less likely to end up with "mystery meat" products that don't match their labels. Establishing a legitimate, age-gated framework for hemp-derived THC helps protect the industry’s reputation and ensures that adult enthusiasts can access tested, reliable products without the shady gas station vibes. It’s a major step toward a more professional and permanent cannabis culture in the Tar Heel State.