At the Roundhouse

January 24, 2020 – State lawmakers have extra revenue coming in this year, but there’s a familiar struggle playing out. Some see the full purse as an opportunity to fund new programs that aim to fix stubborn problems. Others take a more cautious approach. And it isn’t just Republicans vs. Democrats. Plus, is a new task force aimed at helping vulnerable children squandering public support by conducting secret meetings? Even some of the task force members haven’t been allowed to attend.

This week at the Roundhouse correspondent Gwyneth Doland talks to lawmakers about the governor’s proposals and their reactions.

Guests: Sen. George Muñoz, (D) Gallup
Sen. James White, (R) Albuquerque
Rep. Kelly Fajardo, (R) Los Lunas

For Further Reading/Watching:

Lawmakers Have 30 Days to Craft State Budget, Legalize Pot — Associated Press

NM GOP to Focus on State Budget Surplus — KOB-TV

New Mexico Unveils Plan to Give Students Free College Tuition Regardless of Income — NPR

Legislators Question New Scholarship Plan — <Albuquerque Journal

Free College for All In New Mexico —Inside Higher Ed

Why New Mexico’s “Free College Plan Will Likely Backfire — The Heritage Foundation

Sweeping Changes Proposed for NM Pensions — Dan McKay

Op-Ed: Task Force Wants to Break Pensions’ COLA Promise — Albuquerque Journal

This segment is part of the “Your New Mexico Government” Project (#YourNMgov), a collaboration between New Mexico PBS, KUNM Radio, and the Santa Fe Reporter. This endeavor is funded by the New Mexico Local Journalism Fund with public media support provided by the Thornburg Foundation.