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 643, as amended

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

This legislation establishes a series of reporting provisions and staff training requirements for private corrections companies housing state prisoners. The bill essentially mirrors existing practice and is therefore unnecessary. Private corrections firms doing business with the state are governed by state and federal law in addition to extensive contractual requirements. The enactment of this bill would have virtually no effect on the operation of private correctional facilities in New Mexico.

Sincerely,

Gary E. Johnson

Governor