New Mexico is taking the final steps to prepare for its first adult-use cannabis sales in 2022.
The New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department’s Cannabis Control Division (CCD) on Tuesday announced that the final rules for cannabis manufacturers, retailers, and couriers have gone into effect.
CCD had a January 1, 2022 deadline to have the rules in place, as per the Cannabis Regulation Act that passed earlier this year.
“Every day brings us closer to the first adult-use cannabis sales in New Mexico,” says CCD Director Kristen Thomson. “Thanks to the Cannabis Control Division’s open and transparent rule-making process over the past six months, businesses and consumers can be confident that all necessary support and protection is isn place to ensure a thriving cannabis industry in our state.”
Among the rules are regulations that replace emergency manufacturing guidelines for worker protection and workplace safety that CCD adopted in the fall.
Also in effect are rules surrounding retail store licensing and courier guidelines regarding safe delivery and cannabis product distribution.
Thompson says that using best practices and stakeholder input, CCD has utilized its diverse knowledge and experience to create thoughtful rules that set high standards and safety guidelines for New Mexico’s medical and adult-use cannabis industries.
Manufacturing and retail license applicants have been using CCD’s online system.
CCD has received more than 300 applications to date across all industry sectors.
CCD says its staff is reviewing each application and issuing the appropriate licenses.
Thompson says CCD’s dedicated team of professionals is working through the holidays to license applicants and get businesses up and running.
“Standing up a thriving new industry is no small feat, and I know that our team, our system, and New Mexico’s prospective licensees are up to the challenge,” says Thompson. “New Mexico will be ready for adult-use sales in 2022.”
Under the Cannabis Regulation Act, adult-use cannabis sales will commence in New Mexico on April 1, 2022.
