April 9, 1999

The Honorable Raymond G. Sanchez and

Members of the House of Representatives

Executive-Legislative Building

Santa Fe, New Mexico 87503

Honorable Speaker and Members of the House:

I have this day VETOED and am returning HOUSE BILL 117

enacted by the Forty-Fourth Legislature, First Session, 1999.

Before July 1, 1971, membership under the Education Retirement Act (ERA) was optional. Many employees voluntarily chose to opt out. From 1988 through 1991, these same employees were allowed to "opt-in." This legislation would provide yet another three-year window to opt-in to the ERA system. It has been 28 years since ERA membership was made mandatory. It is time the window of opportunity to opt back into the system be closed permanently for those who chose twice to not join the ERA.

Sincerely,

Gary E. Johnson

Governor