This bill is set to amend existing statutes relating to the compensation of district attorneys and their staff. Currently, salaries were predefined based on various classifications of counties, with set amounts for those serving in districts that include class A counties. By allowing the legislature to establish salaries annually, this bill introduces greater flexibility in compensation which could adapt to changing economic conditions or budgetary constraints.
Summary
House Bill 469 aims to regulate the annual salaries for district attorneys in New Mexico by establishing that these salaries are to be determined by the legislature through an appropriations act. This change signifies a shift from the previous structured salary ranges which were fixed for specific fiscal years. Moreover, the bill encompasses provisions for defining the 'covered positions' within the offices of district attorneys as detailed by the New Mexico District Attorney Association Personnel and Compensation Plan.
Contention
Notably, the bill also repeals several existing statutes, indicating a move away from historical salary regulations. This may raise concerns among current district attorneys and their employees regarding job security and salary stability. Discussions around this bill might revolve around the adequacy of legislative oversight and whether or not it could lead to discrepancies in pay based on political considerations rather than objective evaluations of performance.