In January alone, New Mexico’s cannabis sales (both recreational and medicinal) peaked at $40 million. Naturally, the success has had the economic impact the state was looking for.
“Our market has been incredibly volatile ever since April 1 when the program initiated recreational sales, David White, president of Organtica in Albuquerque, told KOAT 7 ABC.
Since that time, there’s been a recorded $230 million in marijuana sales. A figure that proves cannabis has already gone beyond everyone’s expectations.
New Mexico’s industry has grown from the 35 licensed producers it initially started with. In turn, a very competitive (but healthy) market has continued to provide New Mexicans with not only cannabis but so much more.
All revenue collected through cannabis taxes goes directly to the state’s general fund. Naturally, this is used for a number of essentials, such as education, public safety, and health and human services. Still, some of those directly in this industry would like to see more done with this income.
As Giron, co-owner of Canvas Organics, notes: “I think it would be really great if we could put some of that money towards the kids in our future.”
Ultimately, New Mexicans should have a right to say exactly where this money goes and for one simple reason: they’re the ones pushing this industry.
“It’s all the locals generating all this money,” Rodrigo Ramirez, another co-owner of Canvas Organics, told KOAT 7 ABC. “So, that’s a huge thing for New Mexico and Albuquerque.”
It’s worth mentioning Albuquerque because they’ve had more sales than any other city in the state – hitting $78 million in the first 10 months. This is only matched by Santa Fe and Las Cruces, which each garnered around $18 million in sales in the same timeframe.
The Shadow of Success: Texans Purchasing New Mexican Cannabis Still Go to Jail for Possession
However, not all this success is likely coming from New Mexico itself. There are plenty of dispensaries along the Texas border that have also garnered popularity over the last year.
In fact, these dispensaries are gaining so much attention, El Paso (a bordering city in Texas) is fighting to decriminalize cannabis in the state.
As of now, Texas has a Compassionate Use Program, which allows for the sale of medicinal cannabis. However, there are strict regulations on this, including a 1% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cap. Naturally, this doesn’t provide people with the full benefits of the cannabis plant, and many are turning to other avenues, including New Mexico.
Still, if you do not have a medical marijuana ID, cannabis possession is strictly prohibited. With convictions resulting in a Class B misdemeanor which is punishable with up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
Naturally, these restrictions and regulations have prevented many from obtaining the “compassionate care” they need. In turn, those working in neighboring New Mexico dispensaries are getting involved in this fight for decriminalization.
“What we are asking for city reps is to help lead the way in going to state legislation and saying that they will decriminalize cannabis and things like this or implement the cite and release program more than it already is,” Nicole Jordan, the brand advocate for the High Horse Cannabis Company, explained.
These efforts are essential for the residents of El Paso who continue to cross state lines to get cannabis. As Colt DeMorris told city councilors, “Current law in Texas isn’t stopping access to cannabis but we must take a stand and stop putting these people in jail.”
