Recreational Marijuana is Legal in New Mexico

New Mexico has followed suit with some other states by legalizing marijuana for recreational use. June 29, 2021, marked the beginning of the Cannabis Regulation Act, which highlights new rules when it comes to personal possession within the state.

 

The Cannabis Regulation Act details

​Above all, adults must use discretion when it comes to the use of recreational cannabis. People 21 and older can now possess 2 ounces of marijuana while outside the home. However, they can have more inside the home as long as it is not visible from a public place.

There are currently no public areas where the use of cannabis is allowed in New Mexico. Users will have to use cannabis products only on private properties for now. If anyone gets caught with marijuana in public, they could be looking at a civil penalty.

Cannabis can be grown at home with some limitations. As long as it’s only for personal use and not being sold for profit, people can grow up to 12 marijuana plants without a permit.

Retail sale of cannabis and cannabis products has not yet started in New Mexico. The new law states that sales will start no later than April 1, 2022. People interested in being retailers or producers are required to obtain licensing from the Cannabis Control Division (CCD).

Can you still be guilty of a misdemeanor?

​Absolutely. If someone is caught with more than the allowed amount, he or she could be guilty of a misdemeanor under the new law. Police can no longer detain someone if they smell like marijuana, but if someone is pulled over while under the influence, a DUI is possible. Also, if a person grows more plants in his or her home than is allowed or sells without a permit, it could result in a felony.

New Mexico may be more lenient, but Texas isn’t budging

Marijuana laws in Texas are still strict. You can’t buy weed legally in another state nearby, like New Mexico or Colorado, and bring it back across state lines. If caught, you could be facing a fine or even jail time in some cases.

If you are arrested for a drug charge, you need an experienced criminal law attorney. Let Stockard, Johnston, Brown, Netardus & Doyle, P.C. help navigate you through this process. Criminal lawyer, Jarrett Johnston, understands the ins and outs of drug law. Please schedule a meeting today. We will take the time to understand your issue and do our best to get you the outcome that you deserve.

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We understand your concerns. Don’t let legal problems destroy your future. Allow our qualified attorneys guide you so you can continue to focus on your life. Contact our office to schedule a consultation with a qualified attorney to review your case for free.