New Mexico governor adds option to budget plan

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez says she has a proposal to restore vetoed funding to the Legislature for the coming fiscal year. The governor's office issued a statement Tuesday offering to provide $120,000 for an analyst position sought by the Legislature without increasing overall funding to the legislative branch of government. Leading lawmakers in the Democratic-led Legislature say the plan includes scant information about the administration's plan to shore up state finances and that budget negotiations remain at a standstill. The Supreme Court is weighing accusations that Martinez overstepped her authority by defunding the Democratic-led Legislature and all state universities and colleges for the fiscal year beginning July 1. Martinez objects to proposed tax and fee increases approved by the Legislature and has called a special legislative session May 24.