New Mexicans could buy liquor earlier on Sundays at restaurants and bars under a proposal by Democratic and Republican lawmakers.
Liquor sales could start at 10 a.m. rather than noon under measures sponsored by Albuquerque Republican Sen. John Ryan and House Majority Whip Antonio "Moe" Maestas.
Proponents say the law should be changed to allow restaurants to offer drinks during a Sunday brunch and for bars to sell liquor when televised sporting events begin before noon in New Mexico's time zone.
The Senate approved a similar proposal in 2011, but it died in the House. Opponents contended the legislation was contrary to efforts to reduce drunken driving.
The legislation wouldn't change when liquor can be purchased Sunday for off-premise consumption, such as at grocery stores.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.