Each year, general aviation in New Mexico produces $3.2 billion in economic activity and employs more than 49,000 state residents. And now, GA could be getting a helping hand from the state. Two bills (Senate Bill 222 and House Bill 205) that would increase funding to New Mexico's state aviation fund are awaiting Gov. Bill Richardson's signature. AOPA President Phil Boyer wrote the governor, urging him to sign the identical bills: "This legislation will provide more enhancements to the state's air transportation system and in turn bring additional positive benefits to the state's economy." The bills would take money from the state's general fund and give $1 million the first year, $2 million the second year, and $3 million every year after that to the aviation fund to be used for airport planning, program administration, construction, equipment, maintenance, and navigation aids.
March 23, 2007