Some of the proposals filed by New Mexico lawmakers before the start of the Legislature's annual session include bills that aim to confront political corruption and drunken driving. 35 bills have been filed by House members and another 22 by senators so far for the 60-day legislative session that begins Jan. 15.
Republican Rep. Nate Gentry of Albuquerque has proposed a bill that's aimed at discouraging bribery, kickbacks and other activities that have caused scandal in state government in the past several years.
The proposal would let judges add a year to the sentences of public officials convicted of specified corruption-related crimes and would prohibit officials convicted of these crimes from ever becoming lobbyists or being awarded government contracts.
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Information from: The Santa Fe New Mexican, http://www.sfnewmexican.com
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.