Did Trump just give North Carolina Republicans an opening to legalize medical marijuana?

Recently, the federal government reclassified marijuana—which is sometimes called “cannabis”—as a Schedule 3 drug, putting it in the same category as drugs with recognized medical use and a lower risk of abuse.

There’s been growing momentum on this issue in recent years at the North Carolina legislature. Is this the change that finally pushes it over the hump?

Here’s what I think.

It might actually happen this year. Hear me out. (Graphic by Kelly Lennon/COURIER Newsroom)

This is a homegrown video series. So make sure to show some appreciation by giving us a “like” and a “subscribe.” 

Here’s what else is in the C&P newsletter today: 

Thanks to C&P reader Chris Rains for this view of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse. 

This often-overlooked lighthouse—which was completed in 1859—is in the midst of a stabilization project after safety inspections found some safety issues in 2021. But that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the view. Thanks, Chris!

Got a photo of North Carolina you’re dying to share? Send it to me!

Rioters and law enforcement officers hold a fence on the West Front of the US Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

North Carolina’s crucial Senate race is bound to be shaped by national events. Here’s one example: 

President Donald Trump’s Department of Justice recently created a $1.8 billion fund to pay off Trump supporters convicted of crimes, including the people who participated in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol. 

More than 50 North Carolinians have been charged for their participation.

The fund has received harsh reviews from even some Republicans in Congress, as well as current US Sen. Thom Tillis, who called it “stupid on stilts.” 

Democratic Senate candidate Roy Cooper blasted the fund. This week, his opponent, Republican Michael Whatley, had a different take.

1. This North Carolina boy takes care of his sick mother. Locals surprised him with a birthday party. Gaston Gazette

“How a a community in Gaston County, North Carolina surprised an 11-year-old who takes care of his mother.”

2. A package was accidentally delivered to my home. Can I keep it in North Carolina? Wilmington Star-News

“If you’re aware that a package has been delivered to your home incorrectly, you don’t want to hold onto it. Here’s why.”

3. ‘It’s scary’: Heavy rain leads to flooded homes and washed-out roads in Western North Carolina. WYFF

“Officials with Henderson County said it was the worst storm that part of the state had seen since Hurricane Helene in 2024.”

4. This North Carolina bill would make it murder to have an abortion. Here’s what to know about it. Asheville Citizen-Times

“House Bill 1232 would further tighten restrictions on abortion in NC, placing it on the list of states where abortion is considered fully banned.”

If you’re going to catch one meteor shower this summer, make it the Perseids. Here’s when and how. (Shutterstock)

Stargazers have a really busy summer to look forward to. 

We’ve picked out six celestial events happening between June and August, told you when they’re happening, and told you where to watch them.

We’ve also got details on North Carolina’s dark sky parks. 

Read the guide here.

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Billy Ball. I’m an NC native and journalist. I tend to lean left on opinion, but I lean no way on facts. Today’s edition includes stories from Michael McElroy, Britteny Dee, and USA Today Network via Reuters Connect. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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