HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION 18

50th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - second session, 2012

INTRODUCED BY

James E. Smith

A JOINT RESOLUTION

PROPOSING TO AMEND ARTICLE 4, SECTION 10 OF THE CONSTITUTION OF NEW MEXICO TO REQUIRE A LEGISLATOR WHO RECEIVES A SALARY PAID FROM PUBLIC MONEY TO ELECT TO TAKE ANNUAL LEAVE OR LEAVE WITHOUT PAY FOR ATTENDANCE AT LEGISLATIVE SESSIONS AND MEETINGS.

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO:

     SECTION 1. It is proposed to amend Article 4, Section 10 of the constitution of New Mexico to read:

          "A. Except as provided in Subsection B of this section, each member of the legislature shall receive:

                [A.] (1) per diem at the internal revenue service per diem rate for the city of Santa Fe for each day's attendance during each session of the legislature and the internal revenue service standard mileage rate for each mile traveled in going to and returning from the seat of government by the usual traveled route, once each session as defined by Article 4, Section 5 of this constitution;

                [B.] (2) per diem expense and mileage at the same rates as provided in [Subsection A of this section] Paragraph (1) of this subsection for service at meetings required by legislative committees established by the legislature to meet in the interim between sessions; and

                [C.] (3) no other compensation, perquisite or allowance.

          B. A legislator who receives a salary paid from public money must elect to take annual leave or leave without pay for attendance at legislative sessions and meetings. The election shall be filed with the chief clerk's office by the first day of a legislative session."

     SECTION 2. The amendment proposed by this resolution shall be submitted to the people for their approval or rejection at the next general election or at any special election prior to that date that may be called for that purpose.

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