April 6, 2001

HOUSE EXECUTIVE MESSAGE NO. 106

The Honorable Ben Lujan and

Members of the House of Representatives

Executive-Legislative Building

Santa Fe, New Mexico 87503

Honorable Speaker and Members of the House:

I have this day VETOED and am returning HOUSE BILL 599, as amended enacted by the Forty-Fifth Legislature, First Session, 2001.

This bill would modify the existing New Mexico Venture Capital Program to require consideration of state investment in minority-owned businesses. I believe that such funds should be available to all business opportunities that further the economic development objectives of New Mexico, regardless of the racial or ethnic background of the business owners seeking venture capital monies.

Sincerely,

Gary E. Johnson

Governor

RECEIVED FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR:

Time: _____________________ By:_____________________________

Secretary of State

Date ______________________

Time:______________________

Date_______________________ By:_____________________________

Chief Clerk of the House

H106h599