New Mexico lawmakers have wrapped up their work by rushing through a last-minute package of business tax cuts supported by Republican Gov. Susana Martinez. The tax measure cleared the Legislature in the final minute of the session. Martinez made tax cuts for economic development a centerpiece of her legislative agenda, and she will sign the plan that raced through the Legislature.
After the session, Martinez said she also will sign a state budget proposal approved by lawmakers but may reject some individual provisions.
After lawmakers approved the tax bill, Martinez retreated from a previous threat to veto the entire budget, which could have forced a special legislative session.
Lawmakers also sent the governor measures to increase New Mexico's minimum wage, shore up the long-term finances of a pension plan for educators and establish a state-operated health insurance exchange.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.