12 Surprising (and Completely True) New Mexico Laws You’ve Never Heard Of

New Mexico: the Land of Enchantment, renowned for its breathtaking desert vistas, vibrant culture, spicy green chile—and an enchanting array of genuinely peculiar laws hiding beneath the turquoise skies. Behind the adobe architecture and UFO sightings lie quirky statutes so odd, they seem tailor-made for Roswell conspiracy theories. Grab your chile relleno and buckle up, amigos—we’re about to explore New Mexico’s delightfully weird legal landscape.

Idiots Can’t Vote (Technically)

A quirky old law in New Mexico explicitly bans “idiots” from voting. Who exactly decides that? Jury’s still out.

It’s Illegal to Dance While Wearing a Sombrero

Dreaming of a festive hat dance? Not so fast—New Mexico once explicitly forbade sombrero-wearing dancers. Hats off, please.

It’s Illegal to Spit on the Steps of the Opera House in Santa Fe

Santa Fe’s opera steps are officially spit-free zones. Keep your saliva politely indoors or elsewhere.

No Carrying Lunchboxes Down Main Street in Las Cruces

Lunchbox enthusiasts, beware: strolling with a lunchbox down Main Street was historically banned. Brown bags only!

No Tripping Horses in Albuquerque

Albuquerque explicitly forbids tripping horses—because apparently, horse-tripping was once a problem. Equine respect required.

State Officials Can’t Hold Duels

New Mexico lawmakers are explicitly prohibited from dueling. Politics stays civilized (at least legally).

Women Can’t Appear Unshaven in Public in Carrizozo

Ladies in Carrizozo must keep appearances tidy—public shaving regulations are surprisingly strict. Razors ready, ladies.

It’s Illegal for Couples to Have Intimate Relations in Parked Cars Unless Curtains Are Drawn

Romantic rendezvous in parked cars require privacy curtains. New Mexico insists on discreet parking lot romance.

No Hunting in Cemeteries

Hunting amid tombstones? Officially illegal in New Mexico. Respect the dearly departed (and wildlife).

It’s Illegal to Print Menus with Spelling Mistakes in Albuquerque

Grammar police rejoice! Albuquerque explicitly forbids menus with typos. Culinary spelling bees are serious business.

In Deming, You Can’t Hunt in the Mountains Wearing Pajamas

Pajama hunting in Deming’s mountains? Officially banned. Hunting fashion strictly regulated.

No Serving Alcohol to Minors—Unless Their Parents Are Present

Oddly enough, New Mexico technically allows minors to drink in certain circumstances, if supervised by parents. Cheers, family-style.

There you have it—12 enchantingly strange, completely true New Mexico laws that add even more character to this fascinating state. Whether you’re carefully proofreading menus or cautiously selecting hunting attire, New Mexico clearly appreciates a touch of the peculiar. Stay charmingly weird, New Mexico—we wouldn’t have you any other way!

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