ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — A New Mexico state representative plans to take an unpaid leave of absence from his work as a Bernalillo County attorney while serving in Santa Fe during the upcoming legislative session.
The Albuquerque Journal reports that the requirement for unpaid leave is written into Rep. Ken Martinez' contract with the county. The Grants Democrat says he volunteered to take leave without pay to avoid any controversy.
Bernalillo County commissioners are set to consider the two-year agreement Tuesday. Martinez would take over as county attorney later this month.
A 30-day legislative session begins in January. Martinez has said he won't run for re-election after his term expires at the end of next year.
He has served in the Legislature for 17 years and is a former speaker of the House.