ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) -- The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) Principal Chief Michell Hicks criticized Senator Thom Tillis for remarks made during a Senate Judiciary Committee meeting, calling them "inaccurate and offensive."

Senator Tillis raised concerns about the tribe's cannabis operation , questioning its marketing and sales practices, particularly the packaging and app used for the store. He suggested the operation might target younger people and questioned whether sales were being conducted outside the tribe's boundaries, where cannabis is illegal.

In 2023, tribal members voted in a referendum in September backing adult recreational use on their reservation and telling the tribal council to develop legislation to regulate such a market.

Those details were hammered ou

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