The Latest on New Mexico's Governor's address; Democratic protest

11:35 a.m. Dozens of Democrats are rallying outside a luncheon during which Republican Gov. Susana Martinez is expected to discuss the outcome of New Mexico's recently concluded legislative session. They're chanting "sign the budget" and holding signs that read "save our schools," ''no more cuts" and "invest in our kids." Democrats have criticized Martinez for not wanting to sign the budget, saying she's putting the state in danger of at least a partial shutdown. Martinez herself has imposed a state hiring freeze for all non-critical jobs to save cash amid the budget debate. Martinez disagrees with raising some $350 million in taxes and fees to make ends meet and has vowed to call lawmakers back to Santa Fe to renegotiate the budget and tax proposals. The governor has until April 7 to sign legislation approved during the session. After that, bills not acted upon are considered pocket vetoed. ___ 10:25 a.m. The outcome of a contentious legislative session and a continued political standoff over the state budget will likely be on the agenda as Gov. Susana Martinez addresses a group of real estate professionals, developers and business leaders. Martinez is scheduled to speak Monday in Albuquerque at a luncheon organized by the local chapter of NAIOP, an association of commercial real estate developers. Martinez has warned that she won't sign the $6.1 billion budget approved by the Democratic-controlled Legislature earlier this month. She has complained that it relies upon $350 million in tax increases and fee hikes and that she promised New Mexicans not to raise taxes. Democrats argue that the state needs revenue to adequately fund government services, including public education. Democrats are expected to rally outside of Monday's luncheon.