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(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Secretary of State

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Indian and Cultural Affairs Committee Substitute for Senate Bill 849 appropriates $60.0 from the general fund to the Local Government Division for the purpose of providing per diem and mileage for voting rights coordinators in certain counties to improve statewide compliance with federal court consent decrees.

Significant Issues

The Secretary of State currently has two full-time employees who are charged with the duties of the Native American Voter Education program. The budget for this program is found within the agency's existing operating budget. This appropriation seems to focus the funds to local voting rights coordinators who work through the county governments. The primary cost to voting rights coordinators, whether from state or local governments, is per diem and mileage. Traveling throughout the state to the various pueblos and tribes is a major expense. This appropriation would address this cost.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $60.0 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. The appropriation is effective for fiscal years 2001 and 2002.

MW/njw:ar