SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — The New Mexico House of Representatives has begun deliberations on an operating budget for next year that shaves spending by $7 million.
The House prepared Wednesday for a concurrence vote on a $6.2 billion budget that cuts spending at most agencies. Modest increases were slated for state prisons, the Department of Public Safety, public schools, Medicaid and child protective services.
If approved, the budget would go next the governor's desk for consideration.
New Mexico is drawing down operating reserves to offset plummeting revenues tied to oil and natural gas.
Budget recommendations were overhauled twice during the 30-day legislative sessions as revenue forecasts for next year were slashed by more than $300 million. Republican Gov. Susana Martinez and Legislature initially expected to increase spending by about $230 million.