SANTA FE—Following a months-long open and transparent process that solicited public comment, involved multiple public hearings and enlisted input from a specially appointed advisory committee, the Cannabis Control Division of the Regulation and Licensing Department announced Tuesday that rules for cannabis production are published and officially in effect.
“As a result of our open and collaborative process, these rules reflect the unique needs and perspectives of New Mexico residents, businesses, entrepreneurs and communities,” said Regulation and Licensing Department Superintendent Linda M. Trujillo.
The rules that take effect Tuesday cover the licensing of cannabis producers—the people and businesses that grow and harvest cannabis. The rules include plant count limits, which are required by the Cannabis Regulation Act, as well as licensing fees.
The Cannabis Control Division will start accepting license applications through its streamlined online system later this week. The CCD has 90 days to approve or deny an application once a completed application is received.
“We are ready for business,” Trujillo said. “The Cannabis Control Division is committed to supporting licensees to maximize the economic opportunities that adult-use cannabis sales offer our state.”
The deadline for the CCD to finalize the producer rules and begin accepting applications is September 1, putting the division ahead of schedule.
“We are on track and making good on our commitment to an efficient, open and transparent process to stand up this exciting new industry,” Trujillo said. “There is more work to do, but an important first step has been completed and we look forward to working with New Mexicans to stand up production facilities in the coming weeks.”
While the producer rules are now in effect, rules for manufacturers, retailers, testing facilities and other key parts of the supply chain are still in process. Those rules, by law, must be finalized by January 1. Adult-use cannabis sales will start no later than April 2022.