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)

Duplicates Senate Bill 121

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

LFC Files

Commission for Higher Education (CHE)

CHE Files - Special Funding Requests Submitted by NMSU

Department of Tourism

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

House Bill 273 appropriates $380.1 to New Mexico State University (NMSU) to expand the hotel, restaurant and tourism management program's role as a provider of specialized training.

Significant Issues

According to the Department of Tourism, funding will be used by the hotel, restaurant and tourism management program at NMSU to provide student training in the hospitality and tourism industry. It will also be used to conduct research and evaluation of tourism opportunities and tourism's economic impact.

All New Mexico higher education institutions were asked to provide to the Commission for Higher Education (CHE) with an overall priority listing of all new and expansion research and public service

project requests. NMSU provided a categorical priority list to the CHE and funding for this program was included. However, the NMSU Board of Regents only approved funding for this program at $190.0.

The CHE did not recommend funding for this program expansion.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $380.1 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of FY02 shall revert to the general fund.

LG/ar/njw