Can Minors Drink With Parents at Restaurants in New Mexico?

Ok, so you probably read the article title and thought “Why is this even a question?!”

Well, according to google it’s apparently something a lot of New Mexico residents have googled.

It's a topic that often sparks debate and curiosity

New Mexico is not only known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture, it’s also known for having some intriguing laws when it comes to alcohol consumption by minors.

In the Land of Enchantment, it's actually legal for minors to consume alcohol in a restaurant if they are with their parents or legal guardian. That means your favorite local spot could serve your teen a glass of wine—under your watchful eye, of course! 

It’s Not Allowed Everywhere though: 

Before you start planning your family night out, keep in mind that not all restaurants will allow this practice.

Some establishments have their own policies that prohibit serving alcohol to minors, regardless of parental presence. So, it’s always good to check beforehand.

Why does this law exist? 

The idea is to foster responsible drinking habits by letting parents introduce alcohol in a controlled environment. New Mexico isn't alone in this; a handful of other states have similar laws.

Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

But here's the kicker: just because it's legal doesn’t mean everyone thinks it’s a good idea. Some argue that it sends the wrong message about underage drinking.

So, would you let your teen sip a margarita at a family dinner? Download the KISS Mobile App and let us know!

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