NEW MEXICO (DDN) – When choosing a name for their child, parents in New Mexico have plenty of freedom, but there are certain restrictions in place to prevent inappropriate or illegal names. While the state does not maintain an official list of banned names, New Mexico follows general naming guidelines that align with federal regulations and societal norms.
What Names Are Not Allowed?
New Mexico’s naming laws are influenced by U.S. regulations and guidelines set by the state’s Department of Vital Records. The banner names are:
- Santa Claus – It’s difficult to convince anyone that your child can bring gifts to every child on the planet in one night.
- King/Queen – We appreciate that your child has a particular place in your heart, but there is no legal title for them.
- Jesus Christ – This issue is not open for discussion. It appears that giving your child the name of the most famous figure in history is not warmly appreciated.
- Majesty – While you may believe your child is deserving of the title “Your Majesty,” the authorities have ruled out thrones.
- Adolf Hitler – Is there truly a need for more explanation? Just avoid it.
Here are some key restrictions:
- Obscene or Offensive Names – Any name containing profanity, racial slurs, or offensive language is not permitted.
- Symbols and Numbers – Names that include numerals (e.g., “John3”) or special characters (@, #, $, etc.) are generally rejected.
- Overly Long Names – Extremely long names may be denied due to database limitations.
Religious and Cultural Considerations
While some states have explicitly banned names like “Messiah,” New Mexico does not have a law against religious names. However, if a name is deemed intentionally misleading or disruptive, officials have the authority to reject it.
How Are Names Registered?
Parents must submit a birth certificate application to the New Mexico Bureau of Vital Records and Health Statistics. If a name is deemed unacceptable, the agency will notify the parents and request an alternative name.
Legal Name Changes
If a child is given a name that later becomes problematic, parents can apply for a legal name change through the state’s court system. The process typically requires a petition, background check, and court approval.
Conclusion
While New Mexico allows significant flexibility in naming, parents should be mindful of state and federal restrictions. Avoiding offensive, misleading, or impractical names can help ensure a smooth registration process and prevent future legal issues.
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