SB 669: North Carolina Medical Marijuana FAQ - Enact Medical Cannabis Bill
Two new bills were introduced in the North Carolina Senate last month and if enacted, one would legalize the use of medical marijuana and the other would in effect fully legalize the use of marijuana for both medical and recreational use. Keep reading as we answer some frequently asked questions with respect to North Carolina’s latest medical marijuana legislation.
SB 699: What is the North Carolina Medical Marijuana Bill?
North Carolina’s medical marijuana bill was introduced as Senate Bill 669, under the short title, Enact Medical Cannabis Bill. The purpose of the bill is to permit the medical use and cultivation of cannabis in the state of North Carolina.
SB 669: What Medical Conditions are Covered in the Bill?
Currently, the proposed legislation does not offer a list of qualifying medical conditions. Where it stands, the bill merely indicates that ‘qualified patients’ may be recommended for the use of cannabis. The bill defines qualified patient as a person who has been diagnosed by a physician as having a medical condition. It is likely that a list of qualifying conditions will be set forth by legislatures as the bill progresses.
Sb 669: How Could I Get a Medical Marijuana License N. Carolina?
Under the proposed legislation a patient must be issued a written certification by a licensed physician. A written certification will consist of a statement in a patient's medical records, or a statement signed by a physician indicating that, in the physician's professional opinion, the patient has a medical condition and the potential health benefits of the medical use of cannabis would likely outweigh the health risks for the patient.
SB 669: How Will the Bill Impact Business in N. Carolina?
According to lawmakers, a subsequent bill has been introduced in state government which specifies controls for the production and distribution of marijuana. Lawmakers backing the bills argue that the proposed legislation will generate revenue that can be reinvested into communities and create more jobs for the unemployed.
SB 669 Will it be Legal to Drive While Using Cannabis N. Carolina?
No. The senate bill strictly forbids operating any motor vehicle while under the influence of marijuana, even for those with a medical license.
SB 669: Where Could I Use My Medical Marijuana N. Carolina?
Although the use of medical marijuana would be legalized with the passage of this bill, there are still restrictions on where it may be used. The bill strictly prohibits the use of medical marijuana in schools, jails, or any other public place within the state.
SB 669: Can Anyone Sell Medical Marijuana N. Carolina?
Medical marijuana must be sold at a medical cannabis center located in the state and in order to open and operate a medical cannabis center you must apply for and be issued a license. License holders must apply for license renewal every twelve months and pay a fee of $5,000. The same is true for those who wish to cultivate medical marijuana.
SB 669: How will Medical Marijuana be Taxed in N. Carolina?
Outside of the standard state and federal taxes businesses must pay, the bill imposes an additional fee of producers and distributors of 10% of all monthly revenue. This fee varies and may increase, the more a business is involved in the cultivation and sale of medical marijuana.
SB 669: When Might the Bill Become Law N. Carolina?
As of April, the bill has successfully passed its first reading in the Senate. It is unclear when the bill may be enacted into law.
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