NM may close state parks because of budget cuts

Posted at: 10/30/2009 1:20 PM
By: The Associated Press

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Gov. Bill Richardson's administration says it may need to close state parks and reduce oil and gas well inspections because of budget cuts approved by the Legislature.

The Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department Secretary Joanna Prukop said Friday the agency faces a $1.9 million spending cut if the governor signs a bill requiring 7.6 percent budget reductions for executive branch agencies.

The department's statement is the latest warning by the administration that governmental services will be curtailed and state workers furloughed because of looming budget cuts.

The Legislature trimmed state spending by about $253 million during a special session last week to deal with a $650 million revenue shortfall. Reductions in Richardson administration agencies are to save about $94 million.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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