NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Developmental Disabilities Planning Council

Governor's Committee on the Concerns of the Handicapped (GCCH)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

House Bill 75 appropriates $200.0 from the general fund to the Governor's Committee on the Concerns of the Handicapped in FY2000 for the purpose of contracting for technical services to assist handicapped persons to achieve home ownership. Any unexpended or unencumbered funds would revert back to the general fund at the end of FY2000.

Significant Issues

For people with disabilities, housing affordability and availability may be difficult since they may lack the finances and technical expertise to buy a home. According to the GCCH, the bill will provide disabled New Mexicans with a means to learn information about home ownership opportunities. The objective is critical in light of the fact that many disabled people may be unaware of home ownership programs that can benefit them.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

If this bill is passed, the monies would flow through the GCCH to be used for contractual services to increase home ownership for disabled persons. The agency proposes to accomplish this through workshops, brochures and one-to-one mentioning targeting people with disabilities. According to GCCH, the funding would be a one-time appropriation and would not be recurring. However, this contract appears to have recurring costs. Any remaining funds would be reverted back to the general fund at the end of FY2000.

RWP/gm