SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - The Latest on bills signed and vetoed by New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez (all times local):
7:50 p.m.
Legislation has been signed in New Mexico that limits the ability health insurance companies require less expensive drugs before costlier options.
Republican Gov. Susana Martinez on Wednesday signed a bill with broad bipartisan support that reins an insurance practice known as step therapy.
Proponents of the practice say it helps rein in prescription drug costs. Critics say it can cause unnecessary suffering.
At the same time, Martinez signed a long list of bills that influence how the state responds to drug-overdose deaths, allow oil well regulators to collect larger financial assurances, and provide criminal penalties for water system operators who lie to state environmental regulators.
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4:50 p.m.
New Mexico’s governor has signed five bills that provide recognition and support to military members, veterans and their families.
Gov. Susana Martinez on Wednesday signed legislation that expands eligibility to a financial assistance program to all members of the National Guard and their families. The program can help pay for food, rent and utilities amid financial emergencies.
Another signed bill aims to expedite teacher licenses for military spouses who relocate to New Mexico and have been trained as educators.
The Republican governor has approved a law that prohibits false claims of military service for personal gain such as employment or appointment to public office.
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4:10 p.m.
New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez has rejected a proposed 10 percent pay raise for statewide elected officials and utility regulators.
The Republican governor on Wednesday vetoed a bill that would have increased annual salaries after fall elections for officials including the state’s future governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state and public lands commissioner.
In her veto message, Martinez chastises the Legislature for choosing pay raises for politicians over sound fiscal policy and legislation that supports a healthy economy.
The vetoed pay raises together would have increase state spending by about $135,000 a year. A proposed state budget would increase general fund spending by $259 million.
The most recent pay raises for statewide elected officials came in 2002. Many lawmakers say that pay is no longer commensurate with responsibilities.
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