29-01-2025
Bill would let New Mexico counties temporarily halt issuing new cannabis producer licenses
NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – After federal agents shut down a major cannabis grow in Torrance County, there's new attention on a proposal that could make it easier for counties to put a pause on new cannabis producer licenses. 'We've been at a loss as to what to do and how to move forward. How many more can Torrance County handle and should they handle?' said Torrance County Commissioner Kevin McCall.
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Just how many cannabis grows can a county handle is at the heart of a new bill lawmakers are weighing in Santa Fe nearly a week after the feds shut down an alleged illegal operation near Estancia. Current state law doesn't let New Mexico's local governments deny permits for cannabis growing operations. TorranceCounty said it has more than 35 cannabis producers there alone. 'At some point, we as a county want to say enough is enough, we've got enough,' said McCall.
The county said the grows have taken a toll on county roads, cause light pollution, and create an odor. Some constituents have also raised concerns about water usage.
Now, in a bipartisan effort, Sen. Liz Stefanics (D- San Miguel, Santa Fe, Torrance & Valencia), Rep. Stefani Lord (R- Bernalillo & Torrance), and Rep. Anita Gonzales (D- San Miguel & Torrance) are introducing SB 152 which would give county governments a say in pausing cannabis grower licenses. 'This bill would allow counties to petition the Regulation and Licensing Department for a two-year moratorium on cannabis grow permits in their counties,' said Sen. Stefanics.
If a county files a petition, the bill allows the State Regulation and Licensing Department to have the final say on if the pause on new licenses would take effect. 'It's about letting the counties get in control of what they are being asked to let happen in their counties,' said Sen. Stefanics.
Reacting to the bill, prominent cannabis operator Duke Rodriguez, said the real discussion should be around the number of retail licenses the state allows.
New Mexico Association of Counties told KRQE that Torrance County isn't the only county that has stated the need to control cannabis producer licensing in their area better.
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