The Law of the Land
According to the Cannabis Regulation Act (CRA) of 2021 and the Lynn and Erin Compassionate Use Act, it is legal to possess marijuana in New Mexico. Residents are permitted to possess and use marijuana under these rules, however there are some limitations. For example, it is only allowed for people above a particular age to acquire and possess cannabis. The amount of marijuana that a person may own or grow is likewise restricted by the state.
Adults 21 years and older and those with a medical card may purchase marijuana from licensed dispensaries in New Mexico. Furthermore, people can have their prior convictions for canna crimes, that are now permissible under the new legislation, erased.
It is illegal to possess eight ounces or more of cannabis in New Mexico. Federal law still prohibits marijuana use, even in states where it is legal. Anyone found in possession of marijuana on federally owned land may be charged with a felony. The state distinguishes between two types of possession: those for personal use, which are usually considered misdemeanors, and those with the purpose to distribute, which are usually considered felonies.
Depending on the quantity of cannabis involved, different punishments apply in New Mexico for first-time marijuana possession offenses. First-time possession of less than eight ounces is regarded as a misdemeanor, punishable by fines ranging from $100 to $1,000 or a maximum of one year in jail. First-time offenders who possess more than eight ounces face a fourth-degree felony charge, which carries a maximum 18-month jail sentence and a $5,000 fine. The possession of cannabis with the intention of distributing it is punishable by more severe laws, which can result in fines of up to $5,000 and jail terms of up to three years, contingent on the amount.
According to New Mexico law, medical marijuana users and their caregivers are permitted to possess up to two ounces of cannabis at a time and buy up to a three-month supply, which is equivalent to fifteen ounces of dried cannabis. Up to 2 ounces of recreational cannabis, 16 grams of cannabis extracts, and 800 milligrams of edible cannabis are legal for adults 21 years of age and older to possess and buy. The quantity of marijuana that can be kept at home is unlimited, but any extra needs to be stored safely.