Regional

By Vanessa Dabovich

Las Cruces, NM – Several agricultural programs that are vital to New Mexico State University have received funding through the 2010 federal appropriations process. KRWG's Vanessa Dabovich has more

By KRWG News

Las Cruces – The U.S. Border Patrol seized over 1800 pounds of marijuana over the weekend.

There were a total of six different seizures along with one significant arrest.

Border Patrol agents assigned to the Las Cruces, NM I-10 Checkpoint made that arrest.

By KRWG News

New Mexico – Government contractors will be required to make online disclosures of their campaign contributions under legislation passed by the Senate.

Supporters say the disclosures could help in uncovering pay-to-play schemes in which a contractor contributes to a public official with influence over the awarding of government business.

By KRWG News

New Mexico – Delinquent taxpayers could pay what they owe without penalties under a tax amnesty proposal approved by the Senate.

The legislation would allow the Taxation and Revenue Department to establish a 90-day period this year during which individuals and businesses could pay their unreported taxes without penalties or interest.

Supporters say the program is a way for New Mexico to potentially collect more tax revenues to help ease the state's budget problems.

By Vanessa Dabovich

Las Cruces, NM – A new report from Environment New Mexico shows some of the states streams and wetlands are at risk. KRWG's Vanessa Dabovich reports

By Vanessa Dabovich

Las Cruces, NM – Congressman Harry Teague was at New Mexico State University this week to announce federal funding for NMSU projects. KRWG's Vanessa Dabovich reports

By KRWG News

Las Cruces – Every Monday at 7:51 a.m., Fred Martino speaks with Las Cruces Sun News Business Editor Brook Stockberger.

By KRWG News

New Mexico – The Senate has approved a proposal to stop governmental retirees from returning to work for a state or local government while receiving their pension.

The proposed limits will not affect about 1,500 state and municipal workers who already are double-dipping with their salaries and pensions.

The proposed restrictions target public employees retiring after July 1.

Government workers currently can retire, wait 90 days and return to work for the state, city or county while receiving their pensions.

By KRWG News

Texas – The deadline has arrived as state agencies are asked to recommend cuts as Texas faces a projected budget shortfall in 2011.

Gov. Rick Perry, Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and House Speaker Joe Straus in January asked all state agencies to offer proposals cutting 5 percent of their budgets. The deadline was Monday.

Authorities have said the projected state budget shortfall could range from $10 billion to as high as $16 billion next year.

By KRWG News

New Mexico – New Mexicans licensed to carry a concealed handgun could legally go into some restaurants that sell beer and wine under a bill approved by the House.

The legislation, supported by the National Rifle Association, was approved Sunday on a 53-to-14 vote over the objections of some lawmakers who said liquor and guns don't mix.

The Senate passed a similar bill Friday. Both chambers must pass the same version before it goes to the governor to be signed into law.

By KRWG News

New Mexico – The Senate has approved $175 million in capital improvements across New Mexico, including for colleges and universities and senior citizen centers.

Voters would decide in November whether to approve bonds for the projects. The general obligation bonds will be backed by property taxes.

The bill provides $154 million for projects at colleges and universities. Included is $18 million for renovation and additions to the Hershel Zohn Theater and Branson Library at New Mexico State University.

By KRWG News

New Mexico – The Senate has approved a proposal to limit property tax increases when a home changes ownership.

The legislation targets a problem called property tax lightning, where homes are reassessed after being sold and taxes increase because of higher valuations.

State law imposes a 3 percent cap on yearly increases in a home's assessed value until it's sold. That's created tax inequities between property that's sold and homes with no ownership change.

By KRWG News

New Mexico – With time running out in the Legislature, the Senate has approved a $5.5 billion state budget that's balanced by reinstating New Mexico's sales tax on certain foods and increasing the cigarette tax.

The food tax generates $138 million. A wide range of food products will be taxed, including white flour tortillas, candy and soft drinks.

New Mexico lifted the tax on food in 2005. The Senate proposal narrows the definition of food. The bill passed 23-19 late Saturday. It goes to the House where it faces strong opposition.

By KRWG News

New Mexico – People licensed for concealed handguns could take their weapons into restaurants serving beer and wine under legislation approved by the Senate.

Under the legislation, it will remain illegal for individuals to take their concealed weapons into a bar or a restaurant with a full liquor license.

The bill's sponsor, Sen. George Munoz, a Gallup Democrat, said the proposed change in law could help reduce crime because people have handguns stolen when they leave them in a vehicle to go into a restaurant.

By KRWG News

New Mexico – A proposal to revamp the State Investment Council has cleared the Senate and it will reduce the governor's influence over the board overseeing endowment funds valued at $12 billion.

The governor serves as the Investment Council's chairman and can control the board through his power to appoint members.

The legislation removes the governor from the council and limits his influence to fewer members. Legislative leaders will name some appointees.