The Eastern Band of Cherokee will start selling recreational marijuana to members of federally recognized tribes on July 4.
Forrest Parker, general manager of Qualla Enterprises, which runs the tribe’s marijuana dispensary and grow operation, said business has been good since medical cannabis sales were introduced earlier this year.
“We’re very excited to see the business and visitation. On a given day, we tend to turn away a lot of people so that’s a good sign, too,” Parker said in June.
Following last year’s voter referendum to expand to recreational use and sales, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Tribal Council passed an ordinance, ratified by Chief Michell Hicks, further legalizing cannabis on the Qualla Boundary.
The Great Smoky Cannabis dispensary opened in April for medical marijuana sales only. This Thursday at 10 a.m., the dispensary will start selling cannabis products for recreational use.
Initially, sales are permitted only to Eastern Band of Cherokee enrolled members and others with a federally recognized tribal ID card.
It is unlawful for anyone under 21 years old to possess marijuana or to sell, give or transfer marijuana to those who are underage.
Parker said the dispensary’s goal will be to make products available to the general public as soon as