April 5, 2001

SENATE EXECUTIVE MESSAGE NO. 36

The Honorable Richard Romero and

Members of the Senate

Executive-Legislative Building

Santa Fe, New Mexico 87503

Honorable President and Members of the Senate:

I have this day reluctantly SIGNED SENATE BILL 71, as amended, enacted by the Forty-Fifth Legislature, First Session, 2001.

The Retiree Health Care Program, at its inception, was not well designed and provided insufficient funding for the rich plan design that was implemented. For over a decade, teachers and State employees have been forced to contribute to this plan with the promise of a benefit at retirement. Over the past several years, the Board has worked diligently to modify benefits and move more towards affordable plan design. While the Board can still implement modest changes, it is apparent additional revenues from the employee and employer are needed to insure future benefit availability.

Sincerely,

Gary E. Johnson

Governor

RECEIVED FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR:

Time: _____________________ By:_____________________________

Secretary of State

Date ______________________

Time:______________________

Date_______________________ By:_____________________________

Chief Clerk of the Senate

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