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/Relates to Appropriation in The General Appropriation Act Section 4, Other Education.

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

State Department of Public Education (SDE)

Commission on Higher Education (CHE)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 210 appropriates $1,500.0 from the general fund to Eastern New Mexico University for the purpose of continuing the Re: Learning program during FY2002.

Significant Issues

According to CHE, funding for this program is historically appropriated to SDE. SDE then enters into a Joint Powers Agreement with ENMU for administration of the program.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $1,500.0 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of fiscal year 2002 shall revert to the general fund.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

The Re: Learning program would be administered by ENMU rather than SDE.

CONFLICT/DUPLICATION/COMPANIONSHIP/RELATIONSHIP

Included in HB2, Other Education, is an appropriation to SDE for Re: Learning in the amount of $800.0.

OTHER SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES

The following is provided for information only, it is not intended as a commentary on the merits of the program/project.

This project was not included this year in ENMU's budget request to the board of regents, and thus was not submitted by ENMU to the CHE for review.

CTF/njw