SB 265: A Smarter Path Forward for North Carolina Hemp Regulation

In the fight to define the future of hemp in North Carolina, one bill stands out as the smarter, safer, and more sustainable choice: Senate Bill 265.

While HB 328 could devastate the hemp economy by banning most cannabinoids and criminalizing businesses, SB 265 takes a thoughtful and responsible approach to regulation. It’s the kind of legislation that protects public health while allowing North Carolina’s thriving hemp sector to continue growing.

What SB 265 Gets Right

1. Establishes a regulatory framework with testing, licensing, and safety standards aligned with industry best practices.

2. Raises the age of purchase to 21 without banning safe, federally legal compounds like THCa, CBG, and CBN.

3. Limits license costs to a max of $15,000—or just $1,000 for small businesses.

4. Implements child-resistant packaging and clear labeling, rather than arbitrary packaging bans.

5. Avoids criminalizing compliance issues by favoring administrative enforcement over felony charges.

Supported by Veterans, Farmers, and Small Businesses

Unlike HB 328, which is opposed by countless business owners, SB 265 has support from across the state:

• Veterans who rely on hemp-derived products for pain and anxiety management.

• Farmers who want clear rules without fear of sudden prohibition.

• Retailers who need consistency to protect their livelihoods and serve their communities.

The Missed Opportunity

Unfortunately, SB 265 has stalled while HB 328 speeds ahead. This raises serious concerns that short-term politics may win over long-term solutions.

AHAA urges North Carolina lawmakers to revisit SB 265 and recognize its potential to bring clarity, safety, and sustainability to this fast-growing sector.

A Path Toward Safe Access

Regulation isn’t the enemy. In fact, it’s what many in the hemp space have been asking for. But regulation should be collaborative, science-based, and economically feasible. That’s exactly what SB 265 offers.

How You Can Support the Smarter Solution

• Contact your state senator and express your support for SB 265.

• Share this article with your networks, especially business owners and wellness consumers.

• Encourage your local media to cover the differences between HB 328 and SB 265.

• Stay informed and join the advocacy movement at myhealthyusa.org.

Let’s make sure North Carolina moves forward with hemp regulation that works—for everyone.