The Santa Fe County Youth and Family Services Division DWI Prevention Program announced on May 4 the launch of its Sticker Shock campaign, which aims to discourage adults from providing alcohol to minors throughout the county this spring.
The campaign is significant as it seeks to address the perception that buying alcohol for someone under 21 is harmless. Under New Mexico law, such actions can result in a fourth-degree felony charge. The program highlights that a single decision at the register can have lasting legal consequences for adults and pose serious risks to young people.
From April 17 through May 31, bright warning labels are being placed on alcohol products in participating businesses across Santa Fe County communities including Pojoaque, Edgewood, Eldorado, and parts of Pecos. The warnings are designed to catch adults’ attention at the point of purchase and remind them that “One Buy. One Minor. One Major Felony.” According to the official website, Santa Fe County promotes community engagement through public meetings and advisory boards while ensuring access to documents according to the official website.
Officials say prom and graduation season brings increased risk for underage drinking incidents. The Sticker Shock initiative intends to create a critical pause before adults make decisions that could endanger youth or lead to criminal records. As reported by the official website, Santa Fe County supports its operations with administrative facilities across various regions according to the official website. The county also focuses on transparent governance and resource stewardship while providing essential services such as public safety and health according to the official website.
Santa Fe County operates under a Board of County Commissioners for policy-making functions with administrative oversight by a County Manager according to the official website. Services extend not only within incorporated municipalities but also pueblos and unincorporated areas throughout the region according to the official website. Residents receive support in areas like human services, public works, community development as well as safety initiatives like this current campaign according to the official website.
For more information about Sticker Shock or related prevention efforts, residents may contact Chanelle Delgado at CDelgado@SantaFeCountyNM.gov.
