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)

Relates to HB2, SB2

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Commission on Higher Education (CHE)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

This bill appropriates $373.7 from the general fund to the Board of Regents of the University New Mexico to support the Office of the State Medical Investigator (OMI). This bill carries an emergency clause.

Significant Issues

According to the CHE, in recent years, operating costs for the OMI have increased, creating a deficit in the program. The funding proposed in this bill would be used to cover the increased costs of autopsy service supplies and for information management equipment used to document and track OMI's caseload.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $373.7 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund for expenditure in fiscal years 2000 and 2001. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of FY01 shall revert to the general fund.

CONFLICT/DUPLICATION/COMPANIONSHIP/RELATIONSHIP

This bill relates to House Bill 2 and Senate Bill 2 which contains base funding for this program.

OTHER SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES

The CHE recommends that the following language be included for all new recurring higher education programs: "The institution receiving the special appropriation in this bill shall submit a program evaluation to the LFC and the CHE by August 1, 2003 detailing the benefits to the State from having this program implemented for a three-year period."

APP/gm