Lawmakers tackle crime as New Mexico state finances improve

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) – New Mexico lawmakers and Republican Gov. Susana Martinez are preparing to boost spending on public schools, early childhood education and law enforcement as state government climbs out of a financial crisis.
Strategies for reducing property crime and violence in New Mexico’s largest city also are at the top of the agenda, as lawmakers convene Tuesday for a 30-day session.
New Mexico government income for the coming fiscal year is expected to surpass annual spend