Governor Susana Martinez Visits Jaynes Office

October 20 2011 - Governor Martinez signs in-state preference bill at Jaynes office in Albuquerque

On October 6, 2011, Governor Susana Martinez visited the Jaynes Corporation office in Albuquerque to sign into law a preference bill that will close a loophole allowing out-of-state companies to receive a preference reserved for New Mexico businesses when bidding on state contracts. Under this legislation, businesses will be required to be housed in the state and to employ New Mexico workers in order to be eligible for a five percent advantage when doing business with state and local governments. Senator Tim Keller, who was also in Albuquerque for the signing on October 6, and Representative Larry Larranaga sponsored this bill.

“This important law will assist local companies and create a more competitive playing field for New Mexico businesses,” said Governor Martinez. “Making it easier for local businesses to succeed is a critical part of getting our economy back on track. By closing this loophole and creating a more favorable environment for in-state businesses, we will support companies that set up shop in our own back yard and hire New Mexico workers.”

“It is important that we allow local companies the ability to succeed and create jobs here in New Mexico,” added Sen. Keller. “Closing this loophole is an important step toward creating a friendlier business environment and giving our businesses the opportunity to grow, hire New Mexicans, and succeed here at home.”

A similar version of the bill was introduced in the 2011 legislative regular session and passed but had to be vetoed because of a drafting error. It was re-introduced at the 2011 special session of the legislature and passed unopposed.

Here is a link to the AGC-NM website, where you can view the signing of the in-state preference law:

http://www.agc-nm.org/news/state-preference-reforms-become-law/2011/10/11? View In-State Preference Signing here