House Bill 346: A Crackdown on Hemp and Synthetic Cannabinoids in New Mexico
New Mexico’s House Bill 346 introduces sweeping regulations on the hemp industry, tightening oversight on hemp extracts, finished products, and synthetic cannabinoids. Sponsored by Representatives Andrea Romero and Derrick J. Lente, the bill bans semi-synthetic and synthetic cannabinoids, strengthens labeling and retail regulations, and shifts regulatory authority over hemp products to the Environmental Improvement Board (EIB).
The bill primarily benefits regulators and license holders, as it seeks to eliminate unregulated hemp-derived THC products from the market. The crackdown on semi-synthetic cannabinoids like Delta-8, Delta-10, and THC-O aligns with concerns that unlicensed, lab-altered cannabinoids pose health and safety risks. The move could also benefit licensed producers by reducing competition from hemp-derived THC alternatives, which have been widely available outside the state’s licensed market.
For hemp manufacturers and retailers, however, the bill presents significant challenges. Businesses engaged in selling or producing hemp-derived THC products could face compliance issues, product bans, and penalties. The law gives the EIB full control over hemp regulations, including licensing, inspections, and enforcement, with violations potentially leading to misdemeanor charges, fines up to $1,000, and permit revocations.
The bill, set to take effect immediately upon passage, underscores New Mexico’s push to rein in unregulated products while ensuring the legal market operates under strict state oversight.
