Why it matters: The California Unified Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce (UCETF) has reported a surge in illegal cannabis eradication. Despite this, there is still a long way to go in the state’s fight against illegal cannabis operations.
What they are saying: UCETF has seen a 43% increase in the number of plants eradicated from January to March 2023, compared to Q4 2022. Between Q4 and Q1, there was also an increase in the retail value of cannabis products seized. Many officials have spoken favorably about UCETF’s multi-agency approach to combating illegal cannabis.
The big picture: While UCETF is seeing success in its efforts to eradicate illegal cannabis operations in California, its work is just beginning. Despite the progress, more needs to be done in the state’s efforts to eliminate illegal grows.
What to watch: As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see how UCETF continues to combat illegal grows. Watch for updates on how the state is collaborating with local, state, and federal agencies on this issue.
My take: While it’s great to see UCETF and other agencies seizing illegal cannabis, there needs to be a more comprehensive plan in place to address the larger societal issues that led to such rampant illegal activity in the first place. It will be interesting to see how California officials balance their efforts to combat illegal cannabis with exploring more reparative measures for past harms caused by the war on drugs.
