House Bill 10, which seeks to enhance enforcement within New Mexico's cannabis industry, is now awaiting the governor's signature. The bill proposes hiring seven certified peace officers to investigate and prosecute violations of licensing requirements under the Cannabis Regulation Act.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham expressed her support for the bill, stating, "House Bill 10 delivers enforcement tools to help our state crack down on illegal cannabis operations while protecting legitimate businesses. I look forward to signing this bill and strengthening the foundation of our regulated cannabis industry."
Regulation and Licensing Department Superintendent Clay Bailey acknowledged the efforts of various stakeholders in advancing the legislation. "I want to thank the bipartisan group of sponsors, the industry, and other advocates for their efforts in getting this bill to the finish line," he said. "This legislation will provide another critical tool for effectively regulating cannabis in New Mexico."
The bipartisan initiative was sponsored by Rep. Doreen Gallegos and co-sponsored by several legislators including House Speaker Javier Martinez, House Minority Leader Gail Armstrong, Reps. Marian Matthews, Art De La Cruz, D. Wonda Johnson, Joseph Sanchez, Cristina Parajón, Joshua Hernandez, and Sen. Linda Trujillo.
House Speaker Javier Martínez emphasized the importance of enhancing enforcement capabilities: “New Mexico worked hard to establish a well-regulated and fair framework for recreational cannabis and the industry is off to an incredibly strong start,” he said. “Now we are enhancing our enforcement capabilities so we can weed out any bad actors who are not following our rules.”
House Minority Leader Gail Armstrong also highlighted collaboration with key stakeholders: “I’m proud that we were able to work with key stakeholders to get this bill on to the Governor’s desk,” she stated.
Lead sponsor Rep. Doreen Gallegos noted that HB 10 would level the playing field for legitimate investors in New Mexico's cannabis sector: “Today is a great day for the New Mexico cannabis industry,” she remarked.
Senator Linda Trujillo underscored HB 10's role in providing necessary authority to combat illegal activities: “HB 10 will give the Cannabis Control Division much-needed enforcement authority," she said.
For more details about New Mexico's Regulation and Licensing Department or its Cannabis Control Division, visit RLD.NM.GOV.
