New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez is convening a special session of the Legislature to plug a budget shortfall linked a downturn in oil and natural gas markets and also push for a vote on whether to reinstate the death penalty.
The decision Wednesday to reconvene lawmakers sets the stage for public debate on taxes and government spending and the emotionally charged issue of capital punishment less than six weeks ahead of November general elections that could shift the balance of power in the New Mexico Legislature. Republicans are defending a House majority, and Democrats control the Senate.
New Mexico depends on oil and natural gas revenues more than almost any other state and has watched its operating reserves dwindle into negative territory amid a sustained downturn in energy prices.