Morning Word: NM's Weak Ethics Enforcement

Ethics Enforcement Missing
Reports from elected officials that disclose their financial interests are weak to begin with, and reporting requirements are "not enforced or policed" in New Mexico, according to an analysis by a new nonprofit. Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver, who took office in December, tells The Santa Fe New Mexican she's working with her team to impose "multiple election and ethics related rules."

Let's Have a Party

A former

factory in Belen will see a $32 million expansion at the hands of an Israeli plastic manufacturer who worked with the New Mexico Economic Development Department on an incentive plan. Keter’s

is the company's second major US investment on the way. They are also building in Ohio.

White Mountains

Water watchers say snowpack is

in the state for this time of year, and more could be on the way this weekend. Conditions ranging from freezing drizzle to snow are in the forecast for the

.

Medpot Expansion

Yesterday, we wrote about the attorney general's steering committee with district attorneys on combatting opioid addiction. Add medical marijuana to that toolbox if Rep. Cisco McSorely's proposed rule changes are approved by state lawmakers. A bill that would allow licensed producers to grow more cannabis now includes allowing all those with

to buy it.

Toxic Mess

A large-scale restoration project is underway at the Cimarron River site of a

in December. Wildlife officials say up to 300 fish and at least one beaver died in the mess after an oil tanker slid off an icy road and dumped an estimated 600 gallons of fuel into the river.  

Athletes Exit

Something else might be toxic. NM Fishbowl's attention to the athletics programs at the University of New Mexico is falling on

A report collected by members of the school's Athletic Council granted participating students anonymity for speaking out. Their allegations include fat shaming, discrimination and other bad behavior by coaches, trainers and administrators. 

Bueno, Bye

If that headline resonates with you as a New Mexican, you're probably a prime target for a new

developed for the Land of Enchantment. Send a chile cheeseburger, roadrunner or ristra, or choose from New Mexico license plates with phrases like "Bueno, Bye" and "Not Even." A guy who grew up in Placitas is behind the Emoji Fame company.

 

Dr. King's Day and Immigrant Action

Monday is the federal holiday honoring Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Check out this list of

around the state.   

Plus, the  MLK rally in Albuquerque is looped in with the

We'll be back with Morning Word on Tuesday. Thanks for reading!
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