The bill amends Section 10-8-5 of the New Mexico Statutes to allow reimbursement for out-of-state travel on legislative business for legislators who are not on a primary or general election ballot. It introduces new provisions that specify that an elected public officer, including members of the legislature, will not be reimbursed for out-of-state travel if they have not filed a declaration of candidacy for reelection or have been defeated in a primary or general election. However, this restriction does not apply to legislators who are ineligible to serve another term after their current term or to those whose travel has been approved by a three-fourths' vote of the New Mexico legislative council.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the rules regarding the advance of public funds for travel, stating that public funds may only be advanced with prior written approval from the appropriate authority. It also emphasizes that reductions in per diem and mileage rates by the secretary or local governing bodies must not be construed as allowing any other form of compensation. The bill aims to ensure accountability and transparency in the reimbursement process for public officials while allowing certain exceptions for legislators engaged in legislative business.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 10-8-5