North Carolina’s hemp industry is facing a critical shutdown on December 11, 2026.

On that date, a federal change to the definition of hemp is currently scheduled to take effect. If the federal definition is not revised, many products currently sold in North Carolina could become federally illegal.
This could put businesses, employees, consumers, and a major North Carolina industry at risk.

What happened?

In March 2026, North Carolina senators introduced SB265 (2025–2026).

The bill created a regulatory framework for hemp products in North Carolina. It included measures intended to protect consumers and children while allowing the regulated hemp industry to continue operating.

S265 passed its first reading and was referred to the Senate Rules and Operations Committee.

Then it stalled.

Later, provisions from S265 were incorporated into HB328. However, the legislation was significantly changed and included much broader restrictions on hemp products, effectively banning all THC and CBD products currently available in North Carolina.

The North Carolina House rejected that version.

Why are we asking for action?

North Carolina needs a clear regulatory framework for hemp.

We are asking the North Carolina Senate to reconsider and advance the original regulatory approach of S265, rather than allowing the industry to face uncertainty or broad prohibition.

A thoughtful regulatory framework can address concerns about children and consumer safety while providing businesses with clear rules to follow.

What happens if nothing changes?

If the federal definition takes effect on December 11, 2026, businesses will have to comply with the new federal changes, thus making most hemp products illegal.

Without appropriate state legislation, North Carolina hemp businesses could face severe disruption, including the very likely possibility of having to close.

The consequences would reach far beyond business owners. Employees, farmers, manufacturers, retailers, consumers, and communities that depend on this industry would all be affected detrimentally.

Our request

We are calling on the North Carolina Senate to:
1. Reconsider S265.
2. Advance a comprehensive hemp regulatory framework.
3. Protect children and consumers through reasonable regulation.
4. Provide clear rules that allow compliant hemp businesses to continue operating in North Carolina.
We are also calling on North Carolina’s federal representatives to address the upcoming federal hemp definition change before December 11, 2026.

Your voice matters

If you are a North Carolina resident, business owner, employee, farmer, or consumer, this issue could affect you.

Sign this petition to show the North Carolina legislature that residents want a clear, workable regulatory framework for hemp and to keep the products available for adult-use.

We will also be organizing a rally in Raleigh in mid-to-late October. The exact date and time will be announced soon. Transportation will be provided.

Sign the petition. Share it. Contact your representatives. You can find them by simply typing in your address at the following link: https://www.ncleg.gov/FindYourLegislators

Let’s make sure North Carolina has a clear path forward for hemp before December 11, 2026.