Those who have lived in Morelos for some time will likely have questioned many of the laws enacted in the state that seemingly make no sense. For example, there is a Federal Law that the legal drinking age is 18 years old, which is much younger than most countries, which are aware that young people have trouble accepting the responsibility to limit their drinking.
Other laws state that alcohol can only be sold in licensed venues, but they give the right to impose time restrictions to the individual states and municipalities. This only encourages the individuals to drive to a nearby city where they can purchase more alcohol at a later time.
Of course, there are laws against drunk driving and public intoxication, with potential consequences like detention and even denial of future entry for repeat foreign offenders. And there are laws against public drinking, carrying open containers, and public drunkenness. However, public drinking is not well defined, and one would assume that a restaurant, bar, or cantina would be a public space.
During elections, some areas may implement temporary bans or restrictions on alcohol sales, known as “Ley Seca,” which is a windfall for those who sell alcohol, as everyone stocks up on alcohol as the elections near. Obviously, the implemention of temporary bans and restrictions do nothing to limit drunkeness on Election Day.
While laws are often necessary to guide the public on their responsibilities to themselves and the community, it should be the responsibility of attorneys who draft the laws to do so in a way that the average individual understands the law. And the politicos should be able to read and understand the laws that they enact. However, just like the oft spoken adage in Mexico, “That is the way it is!” takes hold and laws get enacted without any real thought the attorneys and politicos.
Now, once again, the politicos are suggesting yet another change in alcohol laws for the wrong reasons.
In a significant announcement today, August 14, 2025, Juan Salgado Brito, the Secretary of Government for Morelos, revealed an initiative aimed at enhancing public safety during the upcoming national holiday celebrations. He proposed engaging all 36 municipalities within the state to consider the implementation of a Dry Law (“Ley Seca”), a measure intended to curtail the incidents of violence often associated with alcohol consumption during these festive periods.
Salgado Brito underscored the alarming levels of alcohol use in the region, linking it to an increase in serious crimes such as homicides and domestic violence. He indicated that the prevalence of alcohol is not merely a health concern but a direct contributor to a range of criminal behaviors that plague communities. In response to this pressing issue, the governor has emphatically encouraged local municipalities to adopt more stringent regulations governing the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages.
In a proactive approach, Salgado Brito detailed that, following directives from the state president, a collaborative committee has been established. This committee, which includes key figures such as Javier García, the head of the Office of the Government, is set to initiate the Patrol Festivals 2025 program starting September 1. This innovative strategy will involve comprehensive security measures, coordinated efforts from the Ministry of Public Security, local police forces, the Mexican Army, and the National Guard to ensure a safe environment during the celebrations.
To facilitate effective communication and cooperation with municipal leaders, there are ongoing discussions aimed at establishing clear control measures regarding the hours and quantities of alcohol that can be sold in various establishments, including bars and nightclubs. Ultimately, the decision to enact the Dry Law will be tailored to each municipality’s unique situation and needs, allowing for a customized approach to enhance community safety during the holiday festivities.
Yes, the use of alcohol does play a major role in health related issues, and is a contributor to criminal behavior, such as domestic violence and homicides. However enacting the law only during holiday festivities does little to reduce these issues during the remainder of year. What is needed is more education and services to curb the acts themselves throughout the year.
