Leveling the Field or Raising the Stakes: HB 10 Signed by Governor

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed House Bill 10 into law, creating a new enforcement bureau within the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department. Beginning July 1, this bureau will investigate violations of the Regulation Act—applying to anyone, not just licensed businesses.

Push for Enforcement

Supporters argue it’s a necessary move to crack down on unlicensed operations and protect the legal market. For years, enforcement was stalled by confusion over jurisdiction between local law enforcement and CCD. With limited resources and unclear authority, violations went largely unchecked.

Response

Industry reaction is split. Some welcome the move as overdue, while others fear overreach and worry it could lead to aggressive policing of compliant businesses. Concerns include targeting low-level infractions, discouraging transparency, and driving operators back to the traditional market.

Impact

The effectiveness of HB 10 depends on how it’s enforced. If done fairly, it could restore trust and balance. If mishandled, it risks deepening the divide between the state and the industry.