NMiF Senior Producer Lou DiVizio introduces this week's podcast with several state headlines, including the decision from prosecutors to drop the manslaughter charge against Alec Baldwin without prejudice. That means charges against the actor can still be refiled.

Gene Grant and The Line Opinion Panel assess the first year of recreational cannabis sales in our state. The panelists respond to questions about equity in the cannabis market, tax revenue and industry regulation.

Then, the panel dives into several pressing environmental issues impacting New Mexico. Those include a request to extend the license at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Waste Isolation Plant, a pending decision that would create yet another nuclear waste dump and historic flooding in the Jemez River Valley.

Finally, Lou speaks with Dr. Larry Leeman from UNM Health Sciences about a new study he'll lead using MDMA to help new mothers break the cycle of opiod dependency. Right now, Dr. Leeman is the medical director at the University's Milagro program, which treats expectant mothers who are addicted. But, Dr. Leeman says methadone and buprenorphine treatments aren’t always successful. That’s why he’s leading a first-of-its-kind study aimed at addressing the underlying mental traumas that feed addiction.