NEW MEXICO

New Mexico Statutes, Article 7, Sections 28-7-1 through 28-7-7. White Cane Law (enacted in 1978), amended 1986 New Mexico statutory law guarantees a blind person the legal right to be accompanied by a specially trained dog guide in all public accommodations and on all public transportation. No extra charge can be levied because of the dog guide's presence, but the dog guide user is liable for any damages the dog might cause the premises. New Mexico state policy also ensures a blind person equal employment opportunity in its state service, the service of its political subdivisions, in public schools, or in employment supported in whole or part by public funds, except when the particular disability prevents performance of the work involved. Public accommodations include hotels, restaurants, stores, public buildings, places of resort and amusement, and all other places to which the general public is invited. (Sect. 28-7-3) Public transportation includes trains, airplanes, buses, boats, taxis, and all forms of conveyance offered for public use. (Sect. 28-7-3) Violation: Any person, firm, or corporation or agent thereof who interferes with the above enumerated rights is guilty of a misdemeanor and punishable accordingly under New Mexico law. (Sect. 28-7-5)