March 11, 1998

The Honorable Raymond G. Sanchez and

Members of the House of Representatives

Executive-Legislative Building

Santa Fe, New Mexico 87503

Honorable Speaker and Members of the House:

I have this day VETOED and am returning HOUSE BILL 417 passed by the Forty-Third Legislature, Second Session, 1998.

This legislation would have increased the distribution from the Instructional Material Fund for additional students. This legislation has been vetoed because it establishes an increased level of ongoing spending for instructional materials. In view of the recurring appropriation increases otherwise mandated by this legislature for public education, it appears that this mandate can well be avoided for the time being. I am concerned that some of the spending patterns for public education, being established now, will not be sustainable in future years.

Sincerely,

Gary E. Johnson

Governor