ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The medical marijuana industry is growing in New Mexico.
The Albuquerque Journal reports several licensed growers are expected to open new facilities as well as dispensaries in the coming months, which would mean a boost in jobs and the economy.
About $3 million in compensation and salaries was paid out by dispensaries and marijuana growers in the first quarter of 2016. That's an increase from $2.3 million in the same time frame last year.
The number of licensed New Mexico patients who bought medical marijuana legally has tripled from last year's first quarter to more than 55,000.
First-quarter sales went from $5.7 million in 2015 to $10 million this year.
Organtica president David C. Romero White says he predicts growth will continue at the same fast pace.