New Mexico Tobacco 21 Minimum Age Sales Law

Under NMSA 1978 Section 30-49-9, it is unlawful to sell, give, or distribute tobacco products, e-cigarettes, vape devices, or nicotine liquids to any person under 21 years of age. Retailers must verify identification for any buyer who appears to be under 30 and may rely on government-issued photo ID showing age. The law applies to all retail outlets, vending machines in age-restricted venues, and remote sales. Possession of tobacco products by individuals under 21 is also restricted, though enforcement priority focuses on retailer compliance through Synar inspections and Department of Health compliance checks.

First-offense retailer violations carry fines around 100 to 500 dollars, with escalating penalties up to 1000 dollars and license suspension for repeat violations.