NM Governor To Veto Budget

Lawmakers neglected tax reform and ditched merit pay for teachers

SANTA FE — Gov. Susana Martinez plans to veto the $5.9 billion budget passed by the Legislature, barring any last-second changes.

"Yes, at this point the way the budget exists, I'm going to veto it," Martinez told New Mexico Watchdog in a video interview Thursday afternoon. Two days remain in the  60-day session.

A veto would lead to a special session.

"I was told today by the leadership that it may not get to my desk until next week, and the session ends Saturday. I was hoping I would get it today so I could return it to them so they can fix it. I'm willing to negotiate until Saturday at noon."