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(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Economic Development Department

State Department of Public Education

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 694 appropriates $75.0 from the general fund to the Economic Development Department for the purpose of supporting a media education and employment center for middle school and high school students in Taos county.

Significant Issues

According to the State Department of Public Education, media literacy education concentrates on understanding how media may influence behavior and responding appropriately to that potential influence. In addition, the department indicates that while media education is new and has a small body of empirical data, recent studies indicate that teaching about media is a successful strategy for promoting critical thinking and intelligent decision making. The department adds that the employment training and information among middle and high school students is a critical component of developing a strong workforce.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $75.0 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of fiscal year 2002 shall revert to the general fund.

MW/ar