While the economic development tools described above are available and used throughout the state, we support legislative efforts specifically directed at enhancing economic development in rural areas. In particular we believe that improvement of the telecommunications infrastructure in the rural areas of the state is critically important. We support increased funding for the state Economic Development Department, tied to performance standards. In particular we support adequate funding for the regional economic development specialist positions and substantial increases in funding for marketing. This will allow the Commission to fully address in a timely manner the numerous issues with which it is tasked.
Tourism is a vital component of economic development in New Mexico.
Therefore we support the maintenance of funding of the tourism budget at least at current levels. We also believe in the right of employees to work for an employer without any requirement that they belong to a collective bargaining unit. We oppose legislation to increase the minimum wage in New Mexico above federal minimum wage levels or to impose a requirement for any artificial wage rates. Unwarranted litigation in the tort arena can be a serious impediment to economic development in the State. In the past decade, many states have enacted laws that significantly reduce opportunities for abuse of the civil justice system as well as reduce the cost of doing business.