The bill specifically redefines the distribution of liquor excise tax receipts. A majority of the revenue generated from these taxes will now contribute to the newly created Alcohol and Substance Use Harms Alleviation Fund. Under this structure, funding will directly target alcohol and substance use harm prevention and treatment, including provisions for individuals across various jurisdictions, including tribal lands. This shift highlights a focus on public health and the direct allocation of resources toward combatting substance-related issues.
House Bill 212, introduced in the 56th Legislature of New Mexico, aims to amend the Liquor Excise Tax Act. This bill changes the rates of the liquor excise tax to a percentage basis, moving away from the previous per gallon or per liter charges. The legislation intends to create a more streamlined approach to taxing alcoholic beverages while also amending distributions of the tax. This includes the establishment of the Alcohol and Substance Use Harms Alleviation Fund, which will receive funds to support treatment and recovery services across the state.
While the legislation aims to streamline tax regulations and provide essential funding for harm alleviation, there may be concerns regarding the impact on local municipalities previously dependent on the local DWI grant program, which is set to be repealed under the new law. Opponents might express worries over the reliance on state-level funding for initiatives that were previously supported at the local level, potentially affecting specific community needs related to alcohol and substance abuse interventions.