NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

Only the most recent FIR version, excluding attachments, is available on the Intranet. Previously issued FIRs and attachments may be obtained from the LFC office in Suite 101 of the State Capitol Building North.

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates/Relates to Appropriation in The General Appropriation Act Relates to HB 52

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Department of Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources.

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

SB 680 requires legislative approval for the sale, transfer, or closure of a state park. Additionally, a state agency shall not enter into any agreement for the management of a state park without legislative approval.

Significant Issues

Sales, transfers or closure of state parks represent significant changes in the assets of the State of New Mexico. It is reasonable that significant changes in the ultimate control of these assets be approved by legislative joint resolutions. The opportunity will generally only arise once a year during the regular sessions of the New Mexico Legislature, slowing down the process to a deliberate public policy debate.

According to the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, this bill will severely limit executive authority related to park lands.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

SB 680 contains no appropriation.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

The bill would severely limit the existing authority to accomplish land sales and transfers.

POSSIBLE QUESTIONS

Would the sale, transfer or closure of a state park ever need to occur rapidly?

PD/njw