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)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Commission on Higher Education (CHE)

New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of HENRC Amendment

This amendment adds language which requires the NMDA to provide a report to the Legislature at the end of FY01 detailing the expenditures made and the noxious weed control activities implemented.

Synopsis of Bill

This bill appropriates $500.0 from the general fund to the Board of Regents of the New Mexico State University to pay for the expenses of the NMDA and the Soil and Water Conservation Districts statewide to implement a noxious weed control program to protect the environment and the state's economy from the impacts of noxious and exotic weed infestations.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $500.0 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of FY01 shall revert to the general fund.

OTHER SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES

According to the CHE, $85.0 was included in the Noxious Weed Act to begin the program.

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."

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