LOS ANGELES—California Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton proposed strengthening the fight against the illegal cannabis market and protecting producers and businesses operating within the state's legal framework.
During his participation in the IgniteIt Cannabis
Conference, held this Wednesday in Los Angeles, Hilton stated that 62% of the
cannabis currently consumed in California comes from illicit sources and
maintained that this market includes operations linked to cartels and gangs of
Chinese origin. The 62% figure coincides with official estimates from the
California Department of Cannabis Control for 2024.
Given this situation, Hilton proposed transforming the
California Highway Patrol (CHP) into a state police force with greater
capabilities to combat crime related to the clandestine cannabis market.
“Enough is enough!” was Hilton’s message, referring to the
growth of illegal activities that, he said, are harming the regulated industry.
The candidate stated that one of his priorities would be to
combat illicit operations and protect those who comply with California’s laws
and regulations, particularly members of the legal cannabis industry.
According to the Department of Cannabis Control, approximately
3.8 million pounds of cannabis were consumed in California during 2024, of
which about 2.4 million pounds came from the illicit market.