Martinez Protects Job Creation

Susana Martinez

Santa Fe New Mexican - Republican Gov. Susana Martinez signed a bill Friday that reduces payouts to those who have lost their jobs but torpedoed a charge to businesses that would have helped balance the unemployment compensation fund. In wrapping up work on bills passed by the Legislature, Martinez used line-item veto powers to reject a $128 million increase on businesses but preserved nearly $80 million in benefit reductions in a measure to shore up the finances of the unemployment compensation program. With no action by the state, the fund was projected to run out of money early next year.

The governor's action came under sharp criticism from a Democratic legislator, who wants the veto challenged in court. "That's an illegal action," said Rep. Mimi Stewart of Albuquerque. Under the state constitution, the governor can make line-item vetoes only in appropriations bills. The governor defended her veto at a news conference, saying an unemployment fix could be considered during a special session of the Legislature, which is expected this fall to deal with redistricting. "We're going to have time to fix it without raising taxes on businesses right now," Martinez said. Read full story here: News New Mexico

Martinez Protects Job Creation