DALLAS — The New Mexico Legislature is considering a $6.07 billion budget proposal from Gov. Susana Martinez in a 30-day session that opened at Santa Fe's "Roundhouse" capitol Jan. 21.
Martinez called for a spending increase of 3%, or $178.6 million, citing a recovering economy and crediting her policies for bringing the budget under control.
"After closing the state's largest structural budget deficit three years ago, New Mexico's fiscal position remains strong and steady," the Republican governor said. "Projected revenues once again exceed last year's spending, by roughly $293 million, and thanks to spending restraint, the state's reserve levels stand at just under 10% — an important feat, given the various revenue and employment impacts of arbitrary federal budget cuts and general dysfunction in Washington, D.C."
Citing ongoing drought in the desert state, Martinez called for a shift in bond funding to water infrastructure.
"Building and repairing our water infrastructure has never been more important," Martinez said in her state-of-the-state address. "That's why I'm asking that we invest 60% of our capital dollars on critical water projects throughout New Mexico."
Martinez cited the development of three arsenic treatment plants for the water supply in Santa Teresa near the Texas-Mexico border. The plants required an investment of about $15 million to make the water safe to drink.
"These tax dollars belong to the people of New Mexico, and they should be invested where they need help the most," Martinez said. "Water projects should be on the top of the list."
