The U.S. Border Patrol has been seizing cannabis shipments, including state-authorized supplies, in southern New Mexico. Licensed cannabis providers have reported over $300,000 worth of marijuana confiscated at highway checkpoints in recent months.
New Mexico's Democratic governor, Michelle Lujan Grisham, raised concerns with U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas about the increased scrutiny faced by cannabis companies in New Mexico compared to other states with regulated markets. Despite assurances from Mayorkas that federal policies on legalized cannabis remain unchanged, Governor Lujan Grisham is working on a strategy to protect the state's cannabis industry.
Cannabis transport drivers have experienced delays and seizures at Border Patrol checkpoints located about 60 miles from the U.S. border. Managers of cannabis businesses have petitioned New Mexico's congressional delegation to ensure the free passage of shipments to safeguard jobs and investments.
U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich criticized the Department of Homeland Security for focusing on seizing cannabis from compliant suppliers instead of addressing urgent priorities like stopping illicit fentanyl trafficking. The U.S. Border Patrol reiterated that cannabis remains a Schedule 1 drug under federal law, leading to potential seizures, fines, and arrests for individuals found in possession.
Business owners like Matt Kennicott from High Maintenance expressed confusion and uncertainty over the sudden seizures by Border Patrol, highlighting the challenges faced by cannabis producers in ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
The ongoing conflict between state-authorized cannabis businesses and federal enforcement agencies underscores the complexities of navigating the legal landscape surrounding marijuana in the United States.
