A Native American tribe in North Carolina has legalized medical cannabis.
The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) on Thursday announced the Tribal Council’s approval of a medical cannabis ordinance that creates a legal framework for medical cannabis cultivation, sales, and use on the Qualla Boundary.
EBCI Principal Chief Richard Sneed says the Council’s approval of a medical cannabis ordinance is a testament to changing attitudes toward legal cannabis and recognition of its use as a medicine.
“I applaud the Council for their thoughtful consideration, exhaustive research and consultation with experts to develop a system that balances compassionate care for patients with preserving safety and security in our community,” says Sneed. “Passing this ordinance is just the first step, but we are excited to begin building this program. I know that I reflect the sentiments of many patients in expressing my pride and gratitude for the leadership demonstrated by our Council on this issue.”
Under the new ordinance, the Tribe will license cannabis cultivation, processing, dispensaries, and labs through the EBCI Cannabis Control Board.
The Board will consist of five experts in fields like healthcare, law enforcement, business, management, and the cannabis industry.
The Board will also announce regulations, license industry workers, and issue medical cannabis cards to enable patients to make purchases at dispensaries.
Qualifying patients must be over 21 years old.
Under the EBCI ordinance, patients will be able to purchase up to one ounce of medical cannabis per day and up to six ounces per month.
The ordinance places purchase limits on medical cannabis products at 2,500mg of THC per day and 10,000mg per month.
