Where marijuana legalization stands in New Mexico
Published: Jan 24, 2018, 4:43 pm • Updated: Jan 24, 2018, 4:43 pm
By Becky Bohrer, Associated Press
SANTA FE, N.M. — A New Mexico state senator who is running for governor has proposed replacing criminal penalties for possession of small amounts of marijuana with a $50 fine.
Democratic Sen. Joseph Cervantes of Las Cruces introduced a bill that would provide a purely monetary penalty for low-level marijuana violations. The Senate approved a similar bill last year that never received a vote in the House. The changes would free up resource for courts, prosecutors and defense attorneys.
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Three Democratic candidates for governor have voiced support for legalizing recreational marijuana, while GOP candidate and Congressman Steve Pearce stands opposed. New Mexico regulates the use of cannabis for a long list of medical conditions.
Outgoing GOP Gov. Susana Martinez has been a firm opponent of legalizing recreational marijuana.
Topics: governor race, legalization, New Mexico, pot penalties
