Colorado cannabis boss becomes chief of regulators in New Mexico
US NEWSreading 2 minutes Published by
SANTA FE, NM (AP) — An executive at one of Colorado’s largest cannabis companies will serve as the next director of New Mexico’s Cannabis Control Division.
New Mexico announced the hiring of Todd Stevens Monday, saying he has years of experience in the Colorado marijuana industry. Most recently, he served as Training and Development Manager at Native Roots Cannabis Co.
Stevens’ appointment comes after a year of turnover in the department and at a time when regulators are looking to step up enforcement of non-compliant companies. Most recently, a state district judge granted the department’s request to cease operations in Albuquerque at a company that regulators alleged was illegally selling cannabis products out of state and manufacturing extracts without the appropriate license or permit.
Stevens said in a statement he wants to help the industry become an economic engine while protecting consumer safety.
“Over the past year, New Mexico has built a thriving new industry, licensed more than 2,000 cannabis companies and maintained those businesses to the high standards that come with an adult cannabis market,” he said.
While in Colorado, Stevens helped design and develop training and recertification for more than 200 retail associates and oversaw the operations of five dispensaries.
