New Mexico lawmaker says 2 of Martinez’s vetoes don’t count
Democratic leaders of the New Mexico House of Representatives say two recent veto attempts by Republican Gov. Susana Martinez are invalid.
House Majority Leader Sheryl Williams Stapleton announced early Friday that two bills would go into effect without the governor’s signature because her vetoes did not include explanations as required.
One House-sponsored bill creates a research program for the industrial production of hemp. The other gives preferences for loans to students at New Mexico medical schools who commit to practice in local communities that need more physicians.
The Senate says three other recent vetoes by Martinez will not count because of missed deadlines.
Tensions are rising between the Democrat-led Legislature and second-term governor over a budget shortfall, teacher evaluations and confirmation hearings for political appointees.
In a written message to the Senate, Martinez on Thursday blasted Democrats in the Legislature for failing to negotiate a balanced budget and said she vetoed eight Senate bills because they are not necessary for the public’s health, safety and welfare.
