Gov. Susana Martinez
Gov. Susana Martinez on Monday signed a bill that toughens penalties for officials convicted of crimes related to public corruption.
From KRQE-TV in Albuquerque:
“Governor Susana Martinez signed Senate Bill 197, legislation that will allow judges to impose additional financial penalties on public officials convicted of corruption, including the cost of the individual’s pension and other benefits. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Bill Payne (R-Albuquerque), passed with bi-partisan support during this year’s legislative session. Governor Martinez was joined at the Metropolitan Courthouse in Albuquerque by Sen. Payne and Rep. Nate Gentry (R-Albuquerque), who also sponsored anti-corruption legislation in the House.
“‘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.’”