NCSLA 2026 C/W Regional Conference

The NCSLA 2026 Central/Western Regional Conference, hosted by the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department -- Alcoholic Beverage Control Division, will explore emerging issues shaping alcohol regulation, examine the evolving marketplace, and consider the unique opportunities and challenges facing regulators throughout the Central and Western regions, including discussions surrounding tribal regulation and other issues of regional importance. The conference theme is "The Spirit of Enchantment: Perspectives on Alcohol Policy, Practice, and the Marketplace". Attendees can expect discussions on ethics in regulatory competencies, AI in regulatory work, expanding responsibilities to products like kratom and alternative nicotine, sustainability topics in beverage alcohol regulation, state-by-state comparisons of alcohol education programs, the industry slowdown, retailer tier practices, and tribal relations in alcohol regulation. The event will also feature a historical presentation on New Mexico's winemaking legacy.