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.