Intercepted marijuana deliveries along the Chihuahua border found to consist of licensed commercial supplies
In the vast expanse of southern New Mexico, a series of unexpected events has unfolded, causing ripples of uncertainty for the state's burgeoning cannabis industry. The U.S. Border Patrol has been seizing marijuana shipments, primarily at highway checkpoints on the border of Chihuahua, Mexico.
Despite the seizures, the source of these operations remains unclear, with no specific cartel or smuggling operation being explicitly linked in recent reports. The Border Patrol's focus on cannabis has raised concerns, particularly among cannabis businesses in the region.
The U.S. Border Patrol's actions have not been addressed in the recent statements from New Mexico's governor, Michelle Lujan Grisham, or her administration. However, the governor has voiced her concerns, stating that the scrutiny of cannabis companies seems greater in New Mexico than in states with regulated markets that aren't along the U.S. border with Mexico.
The seizures have created challenges for cannabis businesses, particularly regarding samples for consumer-safety testing. Many producers in southernmost New Mexico rely on testing labs located north of Border Patrol checkpoints to comply with safeguards against contaminants like mold or pesticides.
Managers at 10 cannabis businesses, including transporters, have petitioned New Mexico's congressional delegation to broker free passage of shipments, citing job losses and investments at stake. Matt Kennicott, an owner of Socorro-based High Maintenance, a cannabis business, stated that seizures by Border Patrol started in February without warning.
U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich has expressed his concerns, stating that the Department of Homeland Security should focus on urgent priorities like stopping the flow of illicit fentanyl, not on seizing cannabis that's being transported in compliance with state law.
Despite the legalisation of cannabis in some U.S. states and Canada, the U.S. Border Patrol continues to seize marijuana due to its illegal status under U.S. federal law. A public statement from the U.S. Border Patrol sector overseeing New Mexico reminded that cannabis is still a "Schedule 1" drug, a designation also assigned to heroin and LSD.
Secretary Mayorkas has assured the governor that federal policies concerning legalized cannabis have not changed. The governor and her administration are working on a strategy to protect New Mexico's cannabis industry. Authorised cannabis sales in New Mexico have exceeded $1 billion since the regulation and taxation of the recreational market began two years ago.
It's crucial to note that individuals violating the Controlled Substances Act encountered while crossing the border, arriving at a U.S. port of entry, or a Border Patrol checkpoint may be deemed inadmissible and/or subject to seizure, fines, and/or arrest. However, the specifics of these seizures and any related fines or arrests have not been detailed in the recent reports.
As the situation evolves, the cannabis industry in New Mexico continues to navigate these challenges, seeking clarity and assurance from federal authorities regarding the future of their businesses.
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