This bill establishes the Enforcement Bureau within the Regulation and Licensing Department to oversee the enforcement of laws related to the Cannabis Regulation Act. It amends Section 9-16-1 NMSA 1978 to clarify the short title of the Regulation and Licensing Department Act and introduces a new section that outlines the structure and responsibilities of the Enforcement Bureau. The bureau will be directed by a bureau chief, who will appoint enforcement agents with peace officer powers to investigate alleged violations of cannabis laws and report findings to the superintendent and the cannabis control division.

Additionally, the bill details the enforcement procedures, including the authority to conduct inspections, issue orders restricting the movement of cannabis products, and take possession of products suspected of being illegal or misbranded. It establishes penalties for individuals who interfere with enforcement actions, such as removing or selling embargoed products, classifying these offenses as fourth-degree felonies. The bill also allows for administrative hearings for licensees aggrieved by enforcement actions and outlines the potential disciplinary actions that may be taken against them. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
CE substitute: 9-16-1
Final Version: 9-16-1