Three New Mexico bars, Graham Central Station, Sauce, and The Library, are in danger of losing their licenses as a result of their inability to abide by basic laws and regulations regarding the sale of alcoholic beverages. The violations, according to the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, arose from the sale of alcoholic beverages to a minor or intoxicated person.The violations are troubling considering New Mexico’s extensive battle with drunk drivers. Although clamping down on such bars will not solve our problem overnight, it does seem that the idea of recognizing the responsibilities associated with alcohol needs to be highlighted. Considering that it is the third strike for each of the bars, they risk the possibility of having their liquor license suspended or revoked.
Personally, I believe that if the bar stands to profit from the sale of alcoholic beverages, it is their job to ensure that they do so responsibly. Just as attorneys are not permitted to practice law with reckless abandon, so too should a bar recognize that they possess a unique responsibility by virtue of selling alcohol. Not to mention, being allowed three strikes is far more lenient than many other businesses are permitted.