📜 What Is HB328?
HB328 – “Cannabinoid Products/Regulate Like Medical Marijuana” – is a proposed piece of legislation that aims to tighten the regulation of hemp-derived cannabinoids in North Carolina.
Key Provisions:
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Would classify many popular cannabinoids (like THCa, Delta-8, and Delta-10) as controlled substances unless part of a state-run medical marijuana program.
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Introduces licensing requirements for manufacturers, retailers, and distributors of cannabinoid products.
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Sets strict limits on THC content in consumable products—potentially disallowing many full-spectrum items currently on the market.
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Could ban or heavily restrict products that are currently legal under the 2018 Federal Farm Bill and state law.
💡 Why It Matters
Hemp-derived cannabinoids such as Delta-9 THC edibles, CBD gummies, loose-leaf teas, and THCa flower are widely used across North Carolina for wellness, relaxation, and natural therapeutic support. These products are legal under federal law, provided they contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight.
If HB328 passes in its current form, the following impacts are likely:
🛑 For Consumers:
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Fewer choices on store shelves
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Potential loss of access to non-intoxicating wellness products
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Need for registration or prescriptions for cannabinoids you currently buy freely
🛑 For Businesses:
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New compliance burdens
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Possible removal of popular product lines
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Reduced revenue for local farmers, hemp shops, wellness brands, and more
🧠 The Science & Safety Perspective
Many of the cannabinoids that HB328 would restrict—such as CBD, CBG, and even low-THC full-spectrum products—have been shown in studies to provide benefits for:
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Anxiety and mood regulation
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Sleep support
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Inflammation and pain
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Focus and calm
Rather than banning or over-regulating, many advocate for robust third-party testing, accurate labeling, and clear age-gated sales instead of criminalization or heavy restriction.
🏛️ What Can You Do?
It's vital to:
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Stay informed about HB328’s progress
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Educate your community on how it might affect wellness access and small business
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Support hemp and cannabis businesses that promote safety, education, and transparency
You can track HB328 on the official North Carolina General Assembly website by searching for "HB328" under the “Legislation” tab.
🔎 What’s At Stake: Hemp in Everyday Life
Here are just a few of the popular products that could be impacted:
| Product | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Delta 9 THC Chocolate Coins | Smooth, microdosed hemp-derived THC edibles | See product |
| THCa Flower Pre-Rolls | Non-psychoactive cannabis buds in raw form | View Pre-Rolls |
| Full Spectrum CBD Gummies | Rich in minor cannabinoids for mood and body support | Try Gummies |
| Herbal Hemp Teas | Soothing blends with natural cannabinoids | Shop Teas |
💬 Final Thoughts
HB328 represents a major crossroads for hemp access in North Carolina. While safety and regulation are critical in any growing industry, the approach must balance consumer protection with freedom of choice, economic opportunity, and access to plant-based wellness.
No matter where you stand, staying informed is the first step in shaping a future that supports both safety and access.