Santa Fe, N.M. - "This bill would have supported our family farmers and ranchers in the state with diversifying their operations, by specifying that value-added agricultural projects were eligible for assistance through the Economic Development Finance Act," stated bill co-sponsor Representative Candie Sweetser (D-Deming). "Value-added agricultural products represent an important part of the economic future for our farmers and ranchers. I am disappointed that this bill that received bipartisan support was vetoed."

"For House District 36 in Dona Ana County and statewide, HB 289 would've helped create jobs and move New Mexico's economy forward by creating opportunities for those trying to bring their value-added agricultural projects to fruition," stated bill co-sponsor Representative Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces). "This veto is shortsighted and misses a great opportunity to greatly expand and provide flexibility to New Mexico's value-added agricultural sector. This veto, coupled with an insistence on cutting education, healthcare, and infrastructure harms our state and our citizens."

For more than two hundred years, New Mexico farmers and ranchers have been a vital part of the state's economic engine. The agricultural industry continues to produce goods that both provide for New Mexicans and add to the economy. With nearly 25,000 farms, 70 established farmers markets, 30 wineries and competitive production of many agricultural products, New Mexico stands ready to gain from further investment into the value-added agriculture arena.