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(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Relates to House Joint Memorial 54

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Secretary of State

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

House Joint Memorial 55 encourages state and local governments to place more emphasis on elections administration in New Mexico.

Significant Issues

The joint memorial points out that the Legislature, being a body of elected officials, has a unique perspective and a primary interest in improving voting procedures at the federal, state, tribal, county and municipal levels. The memorial goes on to express that New Mexico guarantees the principles of "one person, one vote," "every vote is counted," and "each voter shall have equal access to the ballot." The memorial indicates who is responsible for election administration and indicates that the Legislature intends to adequately fund the Secretary of State to perform the duties required by law. The joint memorial resolves that state and local governments be encouraged to place more emphasis on elections administration within the great state of New Mexico.

Copies of the memorial are to be distributed to the New Mexico Association of Counties, the New Mexico Municipal League, and the National Association of Secretaries of State.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

There is no appropriation or significant fiscal implication associated with this joint memorial.

MW/njw