Protect The Plant

We, the undersigned, respectfully urge you to support Senate Bill S265, the Protecting Our Communities Act, a critical step toward establishing responsible, commonsense regulations for North Carolina’s hemp industry.

North Carolina’s hemp market has expanded rapidly, creating economic opportunity across the state. However, the absence of clear, enforceable statewide standards has led to inconsistencies in product safety, concerns regarding youth access, and uncertainty for businesses and law enforcement alike.

Senate Bill S265 provides a balanced regulatory framework that protects consumers, supports responsible businesses, and strengthens public safety while preserving access for adults.

We strongly support this legislation because it advances four essential pillars for a safe and sustainable hemp industry:

1. Age Restrictions to Protect Youth

S265 establishes clear safeguards to prevent underage access to hemp-derived products by:

• Setting a minimum purchase age of 21 for consumable hemp products
• Requiring robust age verification for both in-person and online sales
  

These protections are essential to keeping hemp products out of the hands of minors while maintaining responsible adult access.

2. Mandatory Third-Party Testing for Consumer Safety

S265 ensures that products on the market are safe, consistent, and accurately labeled by requiring:

• Independent, third-party laboratory testing
• Screening for potency, contaminants, and cannabinoid content
• Transparent access to Certificates of Analysis
  

These measures build consumer confidence and help eliminate unsafe or mislabeled products from the marketplace.

3. Strong Packaging and Labeling Standards

S265 promotes responsible marketing and informed consumer use through:

• Clear, accurate labeling of ingredients and cannabinoid content
• Child-resistant and tamper-evident packaging
• Restrictions on products designed to appeal to minors
  

These standards help prevent accidental consumption and ensure consumers understand what they are purchasing.

4. Licensing to Ensure Accountability Across the Supply Chain

S265 establishes a structured and enforceable system by requiring:

• Licensing for manufacturers, distributors, and retailers
• Defined compliance standards and regulatory oversight
• A more transparent and accountable marketplace
  

This framework creates a level playing field for responsible businesses and improves regulatory enforcement.

Why Supporting S265 Matters

Without action, North Carolina risks:

• Continued access to hemp products by minors
• Unsafe or untested products in the marketplace
• Confusion for law enforcement and regulators
• Lost economic potential for compliant businesses
  

Senate Bill S265 addresses these challenges with a thoughtful and balanced approach that protects communities without overburdening legitimate businesses.

We respectfully urge you to support and pass Senate Bill S265, the Protecting Our Communities Act.

Protect our communities. Support responsible regulation. Vote YES on S265.

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