by Lawrence Baker | Feb 23, 2026 | Industry Voice, Legal and Regulatory Alerts, Member News
The 2026 legislative session has officially wrapped up, and the good news for restaurants is that no major legislation directly affecting our industry advanced this year. The proposed liquor excise tax bill did not even receive a hearing, so there are no new liquor...
by Lawrence Baker | Jan 19, 2026 | Industry Voice, Legislative Alerts, Manage My Restaurant
At noon on Tuesday, January 20, the New Mexico Legislature convened its 30-day “budget” session — a short, fast-paced period largely focused on the state’s financial priorities. However, many expect the agenda to extend far beyond the budget. Because this is Governor...
by Lawrence Baker | Sep 15, 2025 | BLOG, Industry Voice, Notes from the CEO and Chair
At 21 years old, I opened my first restaurant with little more than passion and determination. By the time I turned 30, I was operating three successful establishments with 150 employees – living the dream of every entrepreneur who believes in the power of good...
by Lawrence Baker | May 15, 2025 | Industry Voice, Legal and Regulatory Alerts
The New Mexico Restaurant Association respectfully submits these comments in response to the Proposed Heat Illness and Injury Prevention Rule. We firmly oppose the Proposed Rule in its current form. It represents an ill-conceived, one-size-fits-all regulatory approach...
by Lawrence Baker | May 13, 2025 | BLOG, Industry Voice
The restaurant industry in New Mexico has long been a vital part of the state’s economy and cultural identity. From traditional New Mexican cuisine to modern dining experiences, the variety and richness of the food scene have attracted both locals and tourists...
by Lawrence Baker | Mar 20, 2025 | BLOG, Industry Voice, News, Scams, Alerts
The 2025 New Mexico legislative session was a resounding success for the New Mexico Restaurant Association (NMRA), with several landmark victories that will have a lasting impact on the state’s restaurant industry. From defeating burdensome family leave...
