California's Cannabis Crackdown Includes Environmental Focus

California's multi-agency efforts to combat the illegal cannabis market have resulted in significant seizures and arrests in 2024, targeting both the economic and environmental impacts of illicit operations. The state's Eradication and Prevention of Illicit Cannabis (EPIC) program seized over $353 million worth of illegal cannabis, dismantling nearly 775,000 plants and arresting 282 individuals across 36 counties. This initiative, led by Attorney General Rob Bonta, also addressed environmental damage caused by toxic chemicals like carbofuran and infrastructure such as illegal dams. Parallel efforts by the Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force (UCETF) have confiscated $191 million worth of illegal cannabis since January, emphasizing protection of the legal market and consumer safety. Governor Gavin Newsom praised these operations for curbing illegal market activities and promoting the regulated cannabis industry.