New Mexico governor rejects budget, will recall lawmakers

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A New Mexico state budget plan from lawmakers that would shore up spending on public schools and state agencies by raising taxes and fees was resoundingly rejected on Saturday by New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez, minutes after the adjournment of a 60-day legislative session.

With no cash to spare, lawmakers searched beyond public works projects for ways to stimulate economic growth, approving bills designed to expand high-speed internet access and rooftop solar energy systems on state buildings through private and federal investments.

A proposal for an independent ethics commission will go before voters on the November 2018 ballot, while separate legislation would unveil sources of donations to independent political groups that spend unlimited amounts of money to influence New Mexico elections.

A more progressive agenda on social issues was on display in the session, with the approval of a ban on conversion therapy for minors — the practice of attempting to change a person's sexual orientation — and of regulations making it easier for transgender people to change the gender on their birth certificate.

Democratic leaders have invalidated five vetoes because they initially included no explanatory message as required under the state constitution, denying lawmakers the opportunity to address concerns with an amended bill — a legal interpretation disputed by the governor's office.