(UPDATE: The NC Senate approved SB 3 on Third Reading by a 36 to 10 vote on March 1. The bill now proceeds to the NC House for consideration.)
This afternoon, the North Carolina Senate gave initial approval to SB 3, the so-called “NC Compassionate Care Act,” by a 36-10 vote. This bill would legalize the use of marijuana for a variety of “medical” purposes. Sponsored by Sens. Bill Rabon (R-Brunswick), Michael Lee (R-New Hanover), and Paul Lowe (D-Forsyth), this bill proposes to establish an extensive framework of licensing for manufacturing, distributing, selling, possessing, and using marijuana. The bill will be voted on again by the Senate tomorrow, March 1st. If it is approved, the bill will then proceed to the State House of Representatives for consideration.
In testimony during one of the committee meetings, NC Family Counsel Jere Royall said, “At this point in time, the research clearly shows that the harms and costs to individuals, families, and the state greatly outweigh any potential benefits.” Learn more about the implications of SB 3.
If you have not already done so, NC Family urges you to visit NC Family’s Action Center to contact your State Senator before tomorrow and urge him or her to OPPOSE SB 3.
