Democrat leader proposes increase in tax refunds for TV

A Democratic legislative leader proposes to increase tax refunds available for some television production in New Mexico.

New Mexico provides a 25 percent refund on certain expenditures on film and TV production. 

House Majority Whip Antonio "Moe" Maestas of Albuquerque introduced a measure Thursday to raise the tax subsidy to 30 percent for TV series that produce at least six episodes a year in New Mexico. 

The state provides no more than $50 million in tax credits each year. 

Under Maestas' proposal, subsidies that go unused under the cap could be carried over to the next year. That potentially makes more than $50 million available in some years. 

The state paid out about $9 million in subsidies in the last budget year and $21 million so far this year.

Democrat leader proposes increase in tax refunds for TV

Legalization of gay marriage passes first hurdle

A push to legalize gay marriage in New Mexico has passed its first hurdle.

 The bill would let voters decide the issue of same-sex marriage, but it also states churches would not be required to recognize the same-sex marriage bill. 

After hearing very different opinions and personal experiences, lawmakers decided along party lines to pass the bill, which moves it to the next committee. 

Rep. Brian Egolf said he's been contacted by hundreds of people who thanked him for sponsoring the bill. 

Nine states have legalized same-sex marriage, and 10 others have allowed civil unions for gay couples.

 If the bill passes, legalizing gay marriage would  appear on the ballot in November 2014.

Legalization of gay marriage passes first hurdle