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.

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Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates SB 165 except appropriation of $50.0

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

LFC files

SUMMARY

     Synopsis of Amendment

The amendment adopted by HEC reduces the appropriation from $31,070 to $30,O50. The other provisions and intent of the bill remain unchanged.

Synopsis of Bill

The bill appropriates $31.1 to the SDE for contracting for a pediatric early literacy program in Bernalillo County during FY 2001.

Significant Issues

According to a recent report from the Education Commission of the States, research indicates the first three years of life are especially critical to laying the groundwork for future learning. Researchers have confirmed that the infant brain requires almost nonstop stimulation to age 3, well before a child starts school.

According to SDE, a positive step toward solving the dropout problem in New Mexico would be to initiate systematic solutions at an early age.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The $31.1 general fund appropriation is to be expended in FY 2001. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of FY 2001shall revert to the general fund.

DUPLICATION

Provisions of HB 83 duplicate those of SB 165 except that SB 165 appropriates $50.0 for the program.

LB/njw