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	Carraro		DATE TYPED	2/17/04		HB
SHORT TITLE		Space for Legislative District Offices				SB	565
					ANALYST		Fernandez

APPROPRIATION

Appropriation Contained		Estimated Additional Impact		Recurring or Non-Rec	Fund Affected
FY04	FY05	FY04	FY05
	$2,660.0			Recurring	General Fund

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Relates to HB 1 and SB103

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

LFC Files

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 565 appropriates $2,660.0 from the general fund to legislative council service for the purpose of providing a district office and staff for each legislator.

Significant Issues

Senate Bill 565 requires Legislative Service Council develop procedures for identifying suitable office, selecting staff, guidelines for staff qualifications and salary levels, staff training needs and other guidelines and procedures to ensure legislators receive the maximum benefit from a district office.

After the plan is approved by Legislative Council, Legislative Council Service staff shall assist legislators in selecting office space and hiring personnel. Legislative Council Service must train all personnel.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $2,660.0 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of 2005 shall revert to the general fund.

Each member of the Senate will receive $30.0 in FY05 for a district office and staff. Each member of the House of Representatives will receive $20.0 in FY05 for a district office and staff.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

Staff members are employees of the Legislative Council Service but report directly to the legislator in whose office the staff member is employed.

RELATIONSHIP

Senate Bill 103 appropriates $2,660.0 from the general fund to Legislative Council Service for the purpose of providing a district office and staff for each legislator in FY05.

HB1 includes other expenses of the Legislature.

CTF/dm