New Mexico Hires “Weed Cops” as Cannabis Enforcement Gears Up

New Mexico’s Cannabis Control Division is expanding enforcement with
certified peace officers to crack down on illicit operations and safeguard
the legal cannabis industry.

In March 2025, the state passed House Bill 10, empowering the Regulation &
Licensing Department to hire seven certified peace officers dedicated to
enforcing cannabis licensing laws. These new officers will have authority
to investigate unlicensed grows, issue criminal charges, and execute search
warrants—going beyond current administrative penalties  .

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham backed the bill, emphasizing its role in
protecting legitimate businesses from illegal competition while preserving
consumer safety  .

The expanded enforcement bureau marks a pivotal shift—previously, the
Cannabis Control Division could only impose civil fines and refer criminal
cases to local law enforcement. Now, the state can tackle unlicensed
cannabis activity directly  .

Stakeholders stressed the need for balance: properly licensed operators
deserve protection, but critics warn that aggressive policing could
threaten smaller growers without sufficient resources to navigate licensing
complexities  .

Officials expect the new “weed cops” to begin recruitment soon, with
funding drawn from existing cannabis regulatory budgets. The governor’s
signature is pending, anticipated this summer.

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