Your Voice-Our Voice-One Voice
Together we are strong. 1,500 individual restaurants understand that our collective industry voice is stronger than one single restaurant voice. NMRA represents the entire restaurant industry to elected officials at all levels of government and regulatory bodies.
Our Message
Cornerstone of New Mexico Communities
The restaurant industry is a unique part of the fabric of New Mexico.
A cornerstone of every community.
We are an industry of first jobs and second chances.
Our members are an entry point into the job market for many. And a good stepping stone to a brighter future for everyone.
Commitment to New Mexico Communities
Our responsibility is to the backbone of New Mexico’s communities — Entrepreneurship and old-fashioned hospitality.
That’s why we are committed to breaking down the barriers of over-regulation, and empowering small businesses to do what they do best: Hiring in, and enhancing local communities.
New Mexico Minimum Wage Information
at this time there are 7 different minimum wages in New Mexico. NMRA is one of the only organizations that keeps a comprehensive, detailed webpage with all of the relevant information you need to pay your people correctly.
Our legislative menu is a hit with members as well as legislators. This synopsis of the issues effecting restaurants is clear, concise and easy to understand. If you are wondering about NMRA positions on issues it’s all here and we throw in some restaurant humor to make it all palatable.
It’s important that you know who represents you, in your voting/home district and at your restaurant. Get to know these folks ask them to coffee or lunch and talk to them about issues that are important to you. Call Carol at the NMRA office 505-343-9848 if you would like a refresher on the issues important to our members.
When this button is RED you know we need your help with an urgent alert
Legal and Legislative Alerts
Cannabis Beverages: A Growing Opportunity for New Mexico Restaurant
UPDATE: In a new development, the Senate’s Continuing Resolution includes a short delay to the upcoming federal hemp restrictions — pushing the effective date from November 12 to December 11, 2026. Senators rejected an amendment to remove the delay, keeping today’s...
2026 Legislative Wrap-Up
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...
2026 Legislative Session: What It Means for New Mexico Restaurants
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...
2025 Holiday Letter from the CEO
Dear NMRA Members, As 2025 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to recognize each of you—the dedicated restaurant owners, chefs, managers, and hospitality professionals who make New Mexico’s dining scene one of the most vibrant and resilient in the country. This...
A Word from the CEO – Fall 2025
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 food...
NMRA Comments on Proposed Heat Illness and Injury Prevention Rule
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...
