NM Senate approves earlier Sunday liquor sales
NM Senate approves bill to allow bars, restaurants to start selling liquor earlier on Sunday
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) -- Restaurants and bars could sell liquor earlier on Sunday in New Mexico under a proposal approved by the state Senate.
The measure would permit New Mexicans to start buying wine, beer and other liquor at 10 a.m. rather than noon, but only in bars and restaurants.
The proposal doesn't alter the Sunday noon starting time for when package liquor can be purchased at grocery stores and other locations for off-premise consumption.
Republican Sen. John Ryan of Albuquerque said the proposed change will help bars that show nationally televised sporting events that begin before noon in New Mexico. He said restaurants also will be able to offer champagne or other drinks during a Sunday brunch.
The bill passed the Senate on a 34-6 vote on Friday and heads to the House.
