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 HB 214

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

New Mexico Veterans' Service Commission (NMVSC)

LFC Files

SUMMARY

Synopsis of SFC Amendment

The Senate Finance Committee amended SB 290 by deleting language for contributing state funds to the women in military service for America (WIMSA) memorial and inserted language for providing commemorative activities and services in honor of women veterans. The amendment language duplicates HB 214.

Synopsis of Bill

As originally introduced SB 290 appropriates $20.0 from the general fund to NMVSC to provide a contribution to the women in military service for America (WIMSA) memorial located at Arlington national cemetery. The WIMSA memorial is the nation's only major national memorial honoring all women who have defended America throughout history.

Significant Issues

According to NMVSC, New Mexico is one of only three states in the nation that has not contributed to this memorial.

CONFLICT/DUPLICATION/COMPANIONSHIP/RELATIONSHIP

According to NMVSC, SB 290 differs from a house joint resolution (HJR 14) introduced during the 1999 regular session. HJR 14 sought to amend the state constitution's anti-donation clause to permit the state to contribute monies to the women's memorial subject to voter approval. Also, SB 290 differs from a senate joint memorial (SJM 48) introduced during the last regular session, which sought NMVSC to coordinate donations to purchase a memorial plaque at Arlington national cemetery.

RWP/gm/njw