New Mexico cannabis program open to nonresidents, Texans begin applying for cannabis care

(El Paso) – The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has begun issuing three-year medical cannabis cards to nonresidents, a majority of which are from Texas. New Mexico is the only state that allows nonresidents to participate in its Medical Cannabis Program, marking the first time a state has recognized the need for continuity and portability for medical cannabis care.

Prospective patients must be seen by a New Mexico practitioner and certified as having one of the state’s 28 qualifying conditions. There is no fee to the state to receive a three-year card, and cards are mailed to qualified patients within 30 days of the submission of the application.

Among the Texans who have received a three-year medical cannabis card is El Paso NORML Director Colt DeMorris.

“A patient is a patient, regardless of what state they reside in,” said DeMorris. “I am grateful for New Mexico opening up the program so I can be protected and medicate while in the state. I hope other states will lead by example and implement compassionate cannabis care programs that provide for equitable patient rights and continuity of care.”

DeMorris will be making his first purchase with his three-year New Mexico medical cannabis card at 5:30 p.m. tomorrow at Ultra Health Sunland Park. 

It is estimated anywhere from 20,000 to 100,000 nonresidents may enroll in New Mexico’s Medical Cannabis Program over the next year. By allowing nonresidents to participate in the program, enrollment is expected to increase dramatically exacerbating the need for adequate supply statewide.

As of September 30, 2019, there were 77,168 patients in the program.

If you have any additional questions regarding this press release, please contact El Paso NORML Director, Colt DeMorris, at (915) 487-7390.