New Mexico lawmakers, governor seek $1B spending increase

By MORGAN LEE
Associated Press

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico’s governor and leading state legislators are proposed a $1 billion increase in general fund spending for the coming fiscal year. The budget proposals unveiled on Thursday call for a spending boost of about 14% aimed at shoring up access to health care, improving public education and providing new investments in child wellbeing and public safety. The lead budget-writing committee for the Democrat-led Legislature outlined its spending priorities ahead of a 30-day session starting Jan. 18 that focuses primarily on spending and taxation. Leading legislators say they have a rare opportunity to change the course of education and the state economy.