Published by Galaxy Groves | March 2025
North Carolina’s hemp scene has long been described as the “Wild West.” Dispensaries, bars—even pizza joints—have freely sold intoxicating hemp-derived products with little to no oversight. But that may soon change in a big way.
State Senators Todd Johnson, Danny Britt, and Michael Lazzara have introduced a 16-page bill that could radically reshape the state's booming hemp industry. While some see it as a necessary course correction, others worry it's a crackdown that could shut down small businesses and home-based manufacturers for good.
⚖️ What’s in the Bill?
The proposed legislation adds serious structure—and serious restrictions—to a previously loose regulatory environment. Here's what the bill proposes:
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đźš« Age Restriction: No hemp-derived consumables for anyone under 21.
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🏫 Location Limits: Bans products from being sold or possessed on school grounds.
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🧪 Mandatory Testing: Products must be tested for heavy metals, pesticides, and toxins.
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🏷️ Labeling Requirements: Clear marketing, dosage, and ingredient info must be included.
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🏠Ban on Home-Based Manufacturing: Goodbye, backyard brands.
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🧾 Licensing System: Manufacturers, distributors, and sellers will need state-issued licenses.
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⚖️ Dosage Caps: Gummies can’t contain more than 75mg of delta-7, delta-8, delta-9, or delta-10 per serving; liquids are capped at 25mg per serving.
🔍 Why Now?
North Carolina remains one of the few states where marijuana (medical or recreational) is still illegal. Yet, it's been one of the most lenient on hemp-derived intoxicants—delta-8, THC-A, THC-O, and more. This legal gray zone has allowed a flood of potent products into everyday retail spots, often without age checks or safety testing.
Industry advocates and public health experts have both raised concerns: one about the safety and consistency of these products, and the other about children accessing them easily.
🏠Industry Reaction: Mixed Feelings
While some businesses welcome clearer rules and cleaner competition, others fear they'll be priced out of the market.
Rep. John Bell—who also happens to run Asterra Labs, a pharmaceutical-grade hemp company—has voiced support for standards, even if it means added costs for his own operation. But he acknowledges the bill could force many backyard or small-batch producers out entirely.
“There aren’t many companies in NC doing what we do,” Bell told WUNC, “but this law isn’t a slam dunk for us either. The new fees and packaging requirements would hit us too.”
🌿 A Hemp Giant at a Crossroads
North Carolina has a long history with hemp and has built a reputation as one of the most hemp-friendly states in the country. That environment gave rise to some of the most innovative and respected hemp companies in the world.
But with this legislation, the state seems ready to trade its “Wild West” energy for something more structured—and, depending on your view, more sustainable or more stifling.
🌱 Galaxy Groves’ Take
At Galaxy Groves, we believe in safe, responsible, and accessible hemp—but we also know the heart of this industry is its independent growers, small brands, and innovators. Striking a balance between regulation and opportunity is critical. We hope North Carolina gets it right.
Because what happens in one “hemp capital” could echo through the entire country.
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