Fiscal impact reports (FIRs) are prepared by the Legislative Finance Committee (LFC) for standing finance committees of the NM Legislature. The LFC does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of these reports if they are used for other purposes.

Current FIRs (in HTML & Adobe PDF formats) are available on the NM Legislative Website (legis.state.nm.us). Adobe PDF versions include all attachments, whereas HTML versions may not. Previously issued FIRs and attachments may also be obtained from the LFC in Suite 101 of the State Capitol Building North.

F I S C A L I M P A C T R E P O R T

SPONSOR	Aragon		DATE TYPED	01/26/04		HB
SHORT TITLE		“Division” in Local DWI Grant Program Act				SB	22
					ANALYST		Chabot

APPROPRIATION

Appropriation Contained		Estimated Additional Impact		Recurring or Non-Rec	Fund Affected
FY04	FY05	FY04	FY05
			(62.0)	Recurring	General Fund

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Relates to Appropriation in the General Appropriation Act to the Local Government Division of the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

LFC Files

New Mexico Performance Review

Responses Received From

Department of Health (DOH)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 22 transfers the responsibility of administering the Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) grant program from the Local Government Division of the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) to the Department of Health (DOH).

Significant Issues

Governor Richardson’s New Mexico Performance Review recommends transferring the DWI grant fund to DOH to “take advantage of DOH’s experience in managing health programs.” The report states this move would save taxpayers money, improve service for customers, make New Mexico roadways safer, and lead to better prevention and treatment results. The review recommends deleting 1 FTE in effecting the transfer resulting in the cost savings, estimated at $62.0 in general fund.

DOH states the agency currently supports county health councils and tribal entities with funding, training, and technical assistance for purpose of improving health in New Mexico. Integration of the work of county DWI planning councils will enhance delivery of prevention and treatment services.

FISCAL IMPACT

The local DWI grant program administered by DFA provides approximately $13.2 million to local governments. Approximately $600 thousand is used by DFA for program administration. Administration of the fund and the operating budget related to the DWI program would be transferred to DOH.

TECHNICAL ISSUES

DOH is concerned there may be other references in statute related to the DWI that referencing DFA administration of the Local DWI Grant Program Act.

GAC/njw:yr