April 8, 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 631,

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

This legislation amends the Liquor Control Act to essentially increase the license fees for nonresident low volume liquor distributors in their first year of operation. The purpose of this bill, other than to raise slightly more revenue, would appear to be to discourage entry into this particular market. I am firmly opposed to unnecessary government involvement in the private economy.

Sincerely,

Gary E. Johnson

Governor