New Mexico
Cracks Down on Underage Drinking
Law-enforcement officials in New Mexico are using a new state law
to identify and punish liquor stores and individuals providing alcohol
to minors, the Santa Fe New Mexican reported July 13.
Under the new law, anyone who gives alcohol to someone under the
age of 21 can be prosecuted on felony charges. Previously, the law
applied only to those supplying alcohol to anyone under the age
of 18.
"The party's over," said District Attorney Henry Valdez
of Santa Fe. "I believe, and the legislature and the governor
believe, that underage drinking is a major contributor to the DWI
problem that we face in New Mexico ... The message out there for
the adults is that you can get in serious trouble if you're going
to violate the law. The message for the youth, or someone under
21, is that when you ask someone to get you alcohol, you're really
asking them to risk their whole future."
Prior to the new law taking effect, the New Mexico Department of
Public Safety conducted seminars across the state to provide tips
to store owners and clerks on how to spot fake identification cards.
Store clerks also learned the importance of not selling to minors.
|
