A task force charged with evaluating the regulatory options for legalizing adult-use cannabis in New Mexico has voiced support for a traditional licensing structure for businesses as opposed to state-run cannabis companies.
The Cannabis Legalization Working Group—which has been commissioned by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and is made up of lawmakers, cabinet secretaries and members of the state’s medical marijuana industry—endorsed the traditional licensing system during a Sept. 10 meeting, according to U.S. News & World Report.
This structure aligns with New Mexico’s medical cannabis program, which also allows licensed private businesses.
Part of the working group’s recommendation includes barring local governments from being able to ban adult-use cannabis sales within their jurisdictions, according to U.S. News & World Report, although cities and counties would still be able to establish zoning restrictions.
The working group plans to give Lujan Grisham a recommendation in October, after its last meeting on Sept. 25, and Lujan Grisham has announced plans to add cannabis legalization to the agenda for next year’s legislative session, according to U.S. News & World Report.
