New Mexico lawmakers look to change process to remove university regents
NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – A bill changing the process to remove university regents is moving forward in the Roundhouse. House Joint Resolution 12 would amend the state constitution to say regents have a fiduciary duty to their institutions, and they could be removed from their position if they violate that responsibility among others. The bill would also give legal standing to the attorney general, or a majority of the regents, to seek their removal in district court.
New Mexico legislators look to dedicate entire month to green and red chile
The bill comes amid the controversy at Western New Mexico University over misused funds for foreign travel and lavish furniture and the $1.2 million severance package given to its outgoing president. An official with the New Mexico Department of Justice called it a violation of the public trust. 'And we think that this joint resolution goes a long way in ensuring that the public trust is met in instances, that we have good stewards of taxpayer money, and in instances where they don't meet those obligations, we have enforceable reasonable oversight to address these situations,' said Sean Sullivan, New Mexico Department of Justice.
HJR12 cleared the House Education Committee Wednesday morning. If it makes it through the legislature, it will be sent to the voters.
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