NC H78

Establishes the North Carolina Medical Cannabis Act, allowing qualified patients with debilitating medical conditions to legally possess, use, and cultivate cannabis for medical purposes under a regulated system.

Creates a registry identification card system through the Department of Health and Human Services for qualified patients and designated caregivers, valid for two years, with application fees and confidentiality protections.

Establishes a regulated medical cannabis supply system through the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services with licensing for medical cannabis centers, producers of medical cannabis, and producers of cannabis-infused products, funded by license fees and 10-15% gross revenue fees.

Provides legal protections for qualified patients, caregivers, physicians, and licensed producers from arrest, prosecution, civil penalties, and property forfeiture when operating in compliance with the act; prohibits discrimination by schools, employers, and landlords based on medical cannabis use.

Defines "adequate supply" as up to 24 ounces of usable cannabis or a 250-square-foot garden canopy for inhalation methods, with specific limitations on smoking in public places, operating vehicles, and undertaking tasks requiring professional care.