Buckle Up for the Odd: 5 Unexpected New Mexico Laws You Didnt Know
Strange Laws in New Mexico
New Mexico is home to some truly peculiar laws that might leave you scratching your head. Let’s take a look at a few of these oddities that you probably didn’t know existed.
Dancing Around a Sombrero
Believe it or not, it is illegal to dance around a sombrero in New Mexico. While this law may sound amusing, it is still part of the state’s legal system. So, if you find yourself with the urge to show off your dance moves with a sombrero on your head, you might want to think twice!
Voting Rights for “Idiots”
New Mexico has a law that restricts voting rights for “idiots.” However, the term “idiots” is not clearly defined in the law, leaving room for interpretation. It’s unclear how this law is enforced or whether it is still relevant today, but it remains on the books.
No Spitting at the Opera House
In New Mexico, it is illegal to spit on the steps of the opera house. While this law may seem like a remnant from the past, it is technically still in effect. So, if you plan on attending the opera in New Mexico, be sure to resist the urge to spit on the steps!
Unshaven Females in Public
In a rather outdated law, New Mexico prohibits “females” from appearing unshaven in public. While this law may seem peculiar in modern times, it is still part of the state’s legal system. It’s safe to say that this law is not actively enforced, but it’s interesting to discover the historical peculiarities that remain on the books.
Walking with a Lunchbox
If you’re in New Mexico, be cautious about walking down the street with a lunchbox. It is considered illegal to do so, according to the state’s quirky laws. While the reasoning behind this law remains a mystery, it’s always best to avoid any potential trouble and leave your lunchbox at home when strolling around.
Men Wearing Robes
In New Mexico, it is against the law for a man to appear in public wearing a robe (Only In Your State). While the intention behind this law may be unclear, it’s safe to assume that it is not strictly enforced in modern times. So, if you’re a man in New Mexico, feel free to wear your robe in the privacy of your home.
Weight Limit for Wedding Attire
New Mexico has a rather unusual law stating that a woman’s marriage ceremony attire must weigh less than 66 pounds (Only In Your State). While this may seem like an arbitrary limit, it’s unclear how this law is enforced or if it is still relevant today. Nevertheless, it remains an intriguing part of the state’s legal history.
These strange laws in New Mexico serve as a reminder of the unique and peculiar quirks that can be found in legal systems across the United States. While some of these laws may seem bizarre, it’s always fascinating to explore the peculiarities that have shaped our legal landscape.
More Bizarre Laws in New Mexico
New Mexico is known for its unique and sometimes peculiar laws. In this section, we will explore several more strange laws that exist in the state.
Dancing to the National Anthem
In New Mexico, it is illegal for “more than two people to dance to the National Anthem” (Goldberg & Loren). While the intention behind this law may have been to maintain decorum during patriotic events, it may seem unusual to restrict the number of people who can dance to the National Anthem.
No More Than Five Pregnant Women Talking
Believe it or not, in New Mexico, it is illegal for a group of more than five women to discuss their pregnancies in public (Only In Your State). This peculiar law may have been enacted to prevent public disturbances or excessive noise, but its specificity regarding pregnant women is certainly unusual.
Prohibition of “Idiots” Voting
New Mexico has a law that prohibits “idiots” from voting (Only In Your State). While the term “idiots” may no longer be politically correct, it is important to note that this law likely refers to individuals who have been deemed mentally incompetent or have been legally declared as such.
No Biking on City Sidewalks
In Jemez Springs, New Mexico, it is prohibited to use a bike on city sidewalks (Goldberg & Loren). This law aims to promote pedestrian safety and ensure that sidewalks are solely dedicated to pedestrian use. Cyclists are expected to use designated bike lanes or the road instead.
Dress Code for Women in Public
Another strange law in New Mexico pertains to the dress code for women in public. While the specifics may vary, it is illegal for women to appear in public without appropriate attire. Although this law may have been intended to maintain decorum, it raises questions about individual freedom and personal expression.
Hunting from Helicopters
New Mexico has a law that prohibits hunting from a helicopter or an airplane except by permit. This law aims to prevent the practice of “aerial hunting,” which involves hunting animals from aircraft. By restricting this activity, the state aims to protect wildlife and ensure ethical hunting practices.
No Barefoot Women in Public Establishments
In New Mexico, it is illegal for women to be barefoot in public establishments (Only In Your State). While the reasoning behind this law may have been to promote hygiene and safety, it is unusual to specifically target women in such a manner.
These laws, although seemingly odd, are a part of New Mexico’s legal history. While some may still be in effect, they may not always be strictly enforced or may have been modified over time. Nonetheless, they provide an interesting glimpse into the state’s legal landscape and its unique quirks.
Unusual Laws Outside New Mexico
While New Mexico is home to some peculiar laws, other states have their fair share of unusual regulations as well. Let’s take a look at some intriguing laws from outside of New Mexico.
Death Penalty Repeal in New Mexico
On March 18th, 2009, New Mexico became the 15th state in the United States to repeal the death penalty. Governor Bill Richardson signed the repeal act, which came into force on July 1st, 2009. Prior to the repeal, New Mexico had a relatively low number of death penalty cases, with only one execution and 15 individuals sentenced to death between July 1st, 1979, and December 31st, 2007. Of these 15 cases, two individuals were later resentenced to life in prison by the New Mexico Supreme Court in 2019. The repeal of the death penalty in New Mexico has not resulted in a surge in crime or negative effects, and many residents of the state may not even be aware that the death penalty was once a part of their legal system.
Strange Laws in Las Vegas, NM
Las Vegas, New Mexico, not to be confused with its famous namesake in Nevada, has its own set of unique laws. While some of these local regulations may seem peculiar, they contribute to the distinct character of the town. Examples of unusual laws in Las Vegas, NM, include restrictions on recreational activities, such as hunting from helicopters and biking on city sidewalks. These local laws add a touch of quirkiness to the community.
Unusual Prohibitions in Portales and Gallup
Portales and Gallup, two cities in New Mexico, also have their fair share of interesting laws. These local ordinances may cover a wide range of topics, from dress codes for women in public to prohibitions on certain activities or behaviors. While these laws may seem unconventional, they reflect the unique history and cultural context of each city.
Recreational Restrictions in Carlsbad and Clovis
The cities of Carlsbad and Clovis in New Mexico have enacted specific regulations pertaining to recreational activities. These laws may restrict certain behaviors or set guidelines for public gatherings and events. While these restrictions may seem unusual, they aim to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors alike.
As we explore the unusual laws outside of New Mexico, it’s important to recognize that each state and locality has its own set of regulations, some of which may appear peculiar or unexpected. These laws often reflect the unique history, culture, and social context of the communities in which they are enacted. It’s always fascinating to learn about these intriguing legal quirks that contribute to the diversity and character of different states and cities across the country.
Myths and Misconceptions
As we explore the strange laws of New Mexico, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. There are some myths and misconceptions surrounding certain laws that have circulated over time. Let’s take a closer look at a few of these:
Invalid Referendum Petitions
Recently, there have been reports of invalid referendum petitions being circulated throughout New Mexico. These petitions claim to challenge laws passed during the 2023 legislative session. However, it is important to note that these petitions have not been approved or certified by the Secretary of State or the Attorney General (NM Political Report). To be considered valid, referendum petitions must meet specific requirements, including having the necessary approval stamp from the Secretary of State, the Attorney General’s signature, and all legally required instructions for signers. Currently, none of the circulating petitions meet these criteria.
Challenging Laws Passed in 2023
With the circulation of invalid referendum petitions, there has been confusion about the ability to challenge laws passed during the 2023 legislative session. It is important to clarify that the Secretary of State has not approved or certified any referendum petitions submitted, and the Attorney General has not signed any of them. As a result, these petitions will not be considered valid under the law for challenging laws passed during the 2023 Legislative Session (NM Political Report).
Strange Laws in Other States
While New Mexico has its fair share of unusual laws, it’s worth exploring strange laws in other states as well. Each state has its unique set of quirky laws that may surprise you. From Alabama to Wisconsin, there are countless bizarre and outdated laws that continue to exist on the books. If you’re interested in learning about strange laws in other states, be sure to check out our articles on strange laws in US states. You never know what peculiar regulations might be lurking in your neighboring state!
By dispelling myths and clarifying misconceptions, we can better understand the unusual laws that exist in New Mexico and beyond. While some laws may seem strange or outdated, it’s important to remember that they often reflect a specific historical context or carry symbolic value. Exploring these laws can be both entertaining and enlightening, giving us a glimpse into the diverse legal landscape of different states.
Strange Laws in New Mexico
New Mexico is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture, but it’s also home to some truly peculiar laws that you may not be aware of. Let’s take a look at five unexpected laws in New Mexico that you probably didn’t know existed.
Dancing Around a Sombrero
In New Mexico, it is illegal to dance around a sombrero. While this law may seem odd, it is still part of the state’s legal system. So, if you find yourself in New Mexico and have the urge to dance with a sombrero, you may want to think twice. (Only In Your State)
Voting Rights for “Idiots”
New Mexico has a law that prohibits “idiots” from voting in the state. However, what exactly constitutes an “idiot” is not clearly defined, leaving room for interpretation. While this law may seem outdated and questionable, it remains on the books in New Mexico. (Only In Your State)
No Spitting at the Opera House
In New Mexico, it is illegal to spit on the steps of the opera house. This law, though possibly a remnant from the past, is still technically in effect. So, if you find yourself attending the opera in New Mexico, be sure to avoid any spitting-related activities. (Only In Your State)
Unshaven Females in Public
Another unusual law in New Mexico prohibits “females” from appearing unshaven in public. While this law may sound outdated and discriminatory, it is still part of the state’s legal system. So, if you happen to be a woman in New Mexico, make sure to maintain a clean-shaven appearance in public. (Only In Your State)
Walking with a Lunchbox
If you’re in New Mexico, be cautious while walking down the street with a lunchbox. In the state, it is illegal to walk down the street with a lunchbox. While this law may raise eyebrows today, it remains on the books in New Mexico. So, if you’re planning to carry your lunchbox around the streets of New Mexico, be aware of the potential legal consequences. (Only In Your State)
These are just a few examples of the strange and unexpected laws in the state of New Mexico. While some of these laws may seem outdated and peculiar, they are still technically enforceable. So, the next time you find yourself in New Mexico, make sure to abide by these unusual laws to avoid any legal trouble.