On Sep. 7, 2023, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), a federally recognized tribe in North Carolina, approved a ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana use by a vote of 70% to 30%.
The measure allows for the possession and use of marijuana for adults 21 years of age and older within the Qualla Boundary, the 57,000 acre territory held by the EBCI. The measure also provides for the EBCI Tribal Council to develop legislation to regulate the cannabis market. The Qualla Boundary will now become the only area in North Carolina where marijuana can be legally purchased and used.
