The New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board has decided not to take part in a regional program to cap and trade greenhouse gas emissions. It had been approved by Bill Richardson's administration but current Governor Martinez opposes the program. A proposed state budget will likely be voted on in the House later this week now that the Appropriations and Finance Committee has given its approval. The $5.6 billion budget provides for a spending increase of $215 million or nearly 4%.

Meanwhile in the other chamber, the Senate has approved a bill that will make public the names and salaries of government contractors. Supporters say the proposal improves government transparency. Opponents contend the bill goes too far in requiring disclosures about private industry workers. State employee salaries are already public. And the Senate approved a bill that extends the time that a victim of child sexual abuse can bring a civil suit. Currently, victims must file suit by age 24 or three years after becoming aware of the abuse. The bill raises the age to 35. The bill now goes to the House. This proposal came up in light of the Penn State abuse scandal.