HOUSE DEMOCRATS NEWS

Consumer protections regulate products grown in-state and out-of-state

This morning, new consumer protections for the sale and distribution of finished hemp products unanimously passed the House Agriculture and Water Resources Committee.

Sponsored by Rep. Derrick Lente (D – Sandia Pueblo), House Bill 88 amends the 2019 Hemp Manufacturing Act to add minimum standards for product safety, product description, THC concentration, storage requirements, and recordkeeping, as well as establishing enforceable penalties for noncompliance. The new regulations will apply to hemp products produced within New Mexico, or imported from out of state. 

“Right now, hemp products like CBD-infused foods and drinks manufactured outside of New Mexico and offered for sale here may be unregulated, unsafe and not accurately labeled,” said Rep. Lente. “House Bill 88 levels the playing field for our rural New Mexican hemp producers, and also protects our consumers and public health partners.” 

He continued: “Ultimately, House Bill 88 will ensure the safe and equitable hemp industry will thrive in New Mexico.” 

Regulations established under HB 88 will be enforced by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED). 

HB 88 passed the House Agriculture and Water Resources Committee with a unanimous 8-0 vote, and will be heard next in the House Judiciary Committee. 

Members of the public can track legislation on the New Mexico Legislature website, access committee meetings and House floor sessions via the Webcasts tab, or participate by Zoom to provide public comment on committee hearings. During the 2021 Legislative Session, the House of Representatives is focused on passing critical legislation while protecting the health and safety of the public, the staff, and the legislators.