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.

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(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Office of Indian Affairs

LFC Files

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 377 appropriates $600.0 from the general fund to the New Mexico Office of Indian Affairs to provide emergency services in San Juan and McKinley counties.

Significant Issues

According to the agency, the communities the bill would serve includes the Navajo Nation, which includes many remote locations. During winter months, Navajo families will sometimes be stranded and may not have access to running water or electricity. However, emergency services usually fall under the purview of agencies such as the Department of Public Safety, the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department, or the Department of Military Affairs. Emergency funds, authorized by an executive order that declares a state of emergency, are utilized by these agencies when necessary. The bill is unclear as to exactly what type of emergency services will be provided under this appropriation. The services may include, but are not limited to, ambulance and emergency medical services, natural disaster services, search and rescue services, etc.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $600.0 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.

MW/ar/njw