SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — With the legislative session coming to a close on Thursday, both the House and Senate in New Mexico are fully engaged in their last few days of work. The state lawmakers have been busy making significant decisions, including approving a comprehensive set of changes to the cannabis laws.
The cannabis bill, which aims to address gaps in the existing regulations and crack down on illicit marijuana coming from outside the state, is the result of collaborations with industry leaders who have provided valuable feedback. Representative Andrea Romero acknowledges the lessons learned from both good and bad actors within the cannabis industry, expressing gratitude for the bipartisan support received.
However, the bill still needs to go through the final approval process in the Senate before it can move forward. In addition to the cannabis legislation, the House has also authorized the establishment of a state-run meat inspection program. This program will allow for more locally-grown beef to be processed and sold within New Mexico, boosting the state’s agricultural industry.
As the clock is ticking, lawmakers have less than 48 hours to get their bills to the governor. So far, only a small number of bills have been presented to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham for her signature. Among those bills, there is one proposing a seven-day waiting period for gun sales across the state, with exemptions for law enforcement, concealed carry holders, and immediate family members.
Other bills that have successfully made it through the legislative process include ones that call for increased training requirements for school board members, the creation of a higher education trust fund, and the allocation of additional funds from the Early Childhood Education and Care Fund. There are also bills aimed at raising Supreme Court salaries and expanding the Law Enforcement Retention Fund, waiting for the governor’s approval.
Governor Lujan Grisham has already signed off on a plan to revamp the state’s high school graduation requirements. This decision reflects the ongoing efforts to improve the education system in New Mexico and ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the future.