In April, the governor of New Mexico signed a bill making the recreational use of cannabis legal. However, there are still a lot of regulations that are applicable. Businesses will need to have permits. There’s a minimum age to buy, and there are limits to how much an individual can purchase. It’s important for residents to understand these rules, because violating them can have consequences.
Some key regulations
People need to be the age of at least 21 to buy marijuana in New Mexico legally. Like tobacco and alcohol, marijuana is a drug and now the state is going to regulate it. Because cannabis is still illegal at the federal level, states like New Mexico are being very careful about controlling the industry.
One example of this can be seen in the rules around manufacturing and selling cannabis. Almost everyone involved in supplying the product will need some kind of permit from the state. This includes growers, testing labs and retailers. Although marijuana has been legalized, it’s still not legal to smoke it in public.
When it comes to employment, businesses are within their rights to have a zero-tolerance policy in place. Owners of private property can ban the use of cannabis on the premises. People who violate rules around marijuana use can be subject to fines, community service or education programs. Criminal defense lawyers will still be dealing with some cannabis cases.
If you or a loved one has fallen foul of these regulations, it’s a good idea to contact an attorney. The new law is complicated and full of nuances that not every user has grasped yet. Getting help may help you have a better outcome in court.