NC H317

Allows individuals with terminal or debilitating illnesses diagnosed by a licensed physician to legally possess and use marijuana or tetrahydrocannabinols without criminal penalties under North Carolina law.

Requires that individuals must be admitted to hospice or receiving hospice care at home to qualify for the exemption.

Requires use or possession to occur pursuant to a valid prescription or written recommendation from a licensed physician who has determined the marijuana or tetrahydrocannabinols alleviates the illness or its symptoms.

Defines "debilitating illness" as a chronic and substantial inability due to a physically debilitating illness, disease, or injury to care for oneself or a minor child.

Becomes effective December 1, 2015.