The New Mexico House of Representatives has approved a $6.2 billion spending proposal that includes pay raises for new teachers and state police officers.
The House voted 42-25 Tuesday following a three-hour debate. The bill now moves to the Senate.
Adopting a budget is a must-do assignment for lawmakers before the session adjourns March 21.
The amount of spending in the bill is nearly the same as that outlined by Gov. Susana Martinez and the Legislative Finance Committee earlier this year.
While most department budgets remain largely flat, the bill boosts spending for education, the state's child welfare agency, and tourism.
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