Under the Influence: Campaign Contributions, the Excise Tax, and the Alcohol Industry in New Mexico
New Mexico has the nation's fifth highest rate of alcohol-related traffic fatalities. In 2001, the financial impact of alcohol-related traffic incidents was estimated at $960 million.
A strong majority (69%) of New Mexicans support an increase in the excise tax as part of an effort to reduce DWI and underage drinking in the state.