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Published On: Thu, Feb 23rd, 2012

NM Governor Martinez plays hardball

Weekly Edition | February 23, 2012 | By: Editor

NM Gov. Susana Martinez photograph courtesy of NMS.

Albuquerque– On Monday,  NM Gov. Susana Martinez signed a bill that will allow judges to impose additional financial penalties on public officials convicted of corruption hitting their pension and other benefits they may have accrued. The bill was sponsored by Sen. Bill Payne (R-Albuquerque), it passed with support from both parties.

“Corrupt public officials should not be allowed the benefit of their taxpayer-funded salaries and pensions,” said Governor Martinez. “This measure sends a strong message that corruption in New Mexico will not stand. It is a great step forward, and I urge legislators of both parties to continue working with me to pass additional measures to protect taxpayers from corrupt public officials in the future.”

The legislation (SB 197) will allow a judge who is sentencing an individual convicted of public corruption to levy fines that are equivalent to the individual’s salary, pension, and fringe benefits.

“I appreciate the support of Republicans and Democrats alike in passing this important legislation, which will hold public officials accountable when they steal from taxpayers,” added Senator Payne. “Corruption should not be tolerated in New Mexico, and I’m proud to join Governor Martinez in our common fight to clean up state government.

The Governor signed the bill at the Metropolitan Courthouse in Albuquerque joined by by Sen. Payne and Rep. Nate Gentry (R-Albuquerque), who also sponsored anti-corruption legislation in the House.

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NM Governor Martinez plays hardball