Emergency cash for New Mexico courts approved

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The Latest on a budget crisis in the New Mexico state judiciary (all times local): 12:10 p.m. Emergency funding has been approved to ensure jury trials can continue in New Mexico state courts and to stave off unpaid furloughs at the state Supreme Court. The New Mexico Board of Finance led by Gov. Susana Martinez approved a $600,000 infusion to a fund that compensates jurors and another $83,000 for operations at the Supreme Court. Supreme Court Justice Judith Nakamura said the decision will extend funding for jury trials through April 14. She says that gives the Legislature time to address an additional $1 million shortfall in funding for juries, witnesses, court interpreters and other expenses. Board members questioned Nakamura for more than two hours about court spending and suggested implementing user fees on court filings to bring in more money. ___ 6:00 a.m. The New Mexico Board of Finance is considering whether to provide emergency funding to state courts to ensure payment to jurors and avoid unpaid furloughs at the state Supreme Court. The executive board overseen by Gov. Susana Martinez has scheduled a meeting Wednesday to consider a request for $600,000 to shore up a fund for jurors and court interpreters that would otherwise run out of money on March 1. Court officials warn that jury trials could be suspended and cases dismissed without an infusion of emergency cash. Jurors currently receive about $50 a day, after a slight reduction to conserve state funds. The $600,000 would last through early April, while lawmakers craft a new judicial budget. The Supreme Court wants $83,000 to pay for staff salaries through June.