New Mexico’s cannabis industry is at a breaking point, and if the state doesn’t act now, many risk losing everything they worked so hard to build. Legalization was a historic step forward, bringing economic opportunity, consumer protections and much-needed tax revenue to New Mexico. But today, the industry is struggling — overburdened, underregulated and at risk of collapse.
That’s because the Cannabis Control Division, tasked with overseeing the entire industry, is woefully understaffed. With a small number of inspectors monitoring every state dispensary, grow operation and manufacturer, bad actors are slipping through the cracks. Illegal cannabis is flooding the market, and non-compliant businesses are cutting corners while legitimate operators struggle to compete.
The good news? We can fix it. The Save New Mexico Cannabis Now campaign was developed to advocate for overdue changes that will help ensure the industry’s long-term stability. We support House Bill 10 advancing through the Roundhouse. This game-changing measure would create a dedicated enforcement bureau within CCD.
With HB 10, the CCD would have certified peace officers with the power to take direct action against illegal cannabis operations. The CCD currently can only issue minor administrative penalties, allowing illegal businesses to continue operating with little consequence. HB 10 would change this by giving regulators the power to:
These tools are essential to protect law-abiding cannabis businesses and consumers.
After successful passage in the New Mexico House of Representatives, HB 10 is now being considered by the Senate. But lawmakers won’t act unless they hear from you.
Here’s what you can do right now: Visit SaveNMCannabisNow.com to learn more and contact your senator. Tell them to support House Bill 10 and fight for a strong, fair, well-regulated cannabis industry.
New Mexico’s cannabis industry is growing too fast for regulators to keep up. For consumers, this might sound like a dream. But for business owners and industry workers, it’s a nightmare. The overabundance of cannabis businesses is driving revenues down, forcing companies to operate on razor-thin margins and making it nearly impossible for many to survive. Small dispensaries — the backbone of our legal market — are being pushed out while illegal operations thrive because of weak enforcement.
If we don’t act now, the legal market will be overrun by unregulated, unsafe products, putting both consumers and responsible businesses at risk. Other states have faced similar challenges and found innovative solutions. In those states, lawmakers paused the issuance of new dispensary licenses to give regulators time to strengthen oversight and create a more balanced market. New Mexico should follow suit.
A temporary pause on new dispensary licenses would allow regulators to catch up, ensure fair competition and prevent further market instability. This isn’t about stopping growth but ensuring the industry can grow safely and fairly.
The people of New Mexico are paying attention and demanding action. A recent survey found 54% of residents believe there are too many dispensaries, and nearly two-thirds support policies to stabilize the market.
New Mexico’s cannabis industry isn’t doomed — it’s at a crossroads. By enacting a temporary licensing pause, strengthening enforcement and passing House Bill 10, we can build a safe, stable and sustainable market for years.
Please continue to visit the website for updates on the progress of HB 10 and other bills designed to create a safer, regulated cannabis market in New Mexico.