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 HB89,120,145,202; and SB219,229,120

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Commission on Higher Education (CHE)

Environment Department (ED)

New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

This bill appropriates $150.0 from the general fund to the Board of Regents of the New Mexico State University for the Tierra y Montes Soil and Water Conservation District to conduct a hydrological assessment of the ground water in San Miguel county.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $150.0 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.

CONFLICT/DUPLICATION/COMPANIONSHIP/RELATIONSHIP

This bill relates to House Bills 89, 120 and 145 and to Senate Bill 202 all of which enhance funding for the Soil and Water Conservation Districts.

OTHER SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES

The CHE recommends that the following language be included for all new recurring higher education programs: "A plan for a program evaluation, including specific program goals and criteria for assessing program effectiveness shall be submitted to the LFC and the CHE by October 1, 2000. An assessment of the program will be completed prior to June 30, 2001 and submitted to the LFC and the CHE."

APP/sb