Albuquerque, March 31—Today the New Mexico House approved legislation to legalize recreational marijuana. The vote was 38-32.

The following is a statement from Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Steve Pearce:

"This is another case where progressive Democrats have rammed legislation down our throats. This Special Session has been forced upon us, and it's at the expense of the public. Legalizing recreational marijuana is not what New Mexico needs. With a state facing dire problems and ranking at the bottom in education, economic opportunity and job growth, lawmakers must be focused on more pressing issues. Our legislative priorities as a state have vanished. Legalizing recreational marijuana is not only not a pressing issue, but such a law would lead to more crime, underage use and impaired driving. It's also unclear just how much revenue recreational pot would even raise, despite the Governor's pipe dream of raising millions."

The Republican Party of New Mexico (RPNM) advances the ideals of individual liberties for the advancement of its citizens and the greater prosperity of our communities throughout New Mexico. Led by an Executive Board and its Chairman, former NM Congressman Steve Pearce, RPNM serves all New Mexicans via its headquarters in Albuquerque and can be contacted at (505) 298-3662.