The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians’ Tribal Council recently approved the recreational sale of marijuana on the Qualla Boundary in North Carolina. This decision has sparked mixed reactions from local residents and law enforcement. The Great Smoky Cannabis Company, located on the Cherokee Indian Reservation, began recreational marijuana sales to tribal members and other recognized federal tribe members on the Fourth of July.
While marijuana use is legal on the Qualla Boundary, it remains illegal in North Carolina. The Great Smoky Cannabis Company had already anticipated adult-use sales when it opened in April, and is excited to expand its capacity and staff to meet the demand. The dispensary initially started with medical marijuana sales, but has now transitioned to recreational sales following the approval by the EBCI Tribal Council in June.
The tribe’s decision to allow recreational marijuana sales comes after a vote in September of 2023, showing support for the legislation. The Great Smoky Cannabis Company is committed to providing high-quality, safe, and regulated cannabis products to its customers. This move marks a significant milestone in North Carolina as the state’s first official recreational marijuana sales to a limited population have now begun on the Qualla Boundary.
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