Santa Fe, N.M - Today, David Abbey, who has served as director of the Legislative Finance Committee (LFC) since 1997, announced that he will retire this Summer. He is the longest serving director of the LFC.

Director Abbey's long career in public service also includes roles as chief investment officer for the State Treasurer, director of the Board of Finance, and chief economist for the Department of Finance and Administration.

Statement from House Speaker Javier Martínez (D-Albuquerque):
"Director Abbey has responsibly steered our Legislative Finance Committee through both enormous challenges and unprecedented opportunities - from the national financial crisis of 2008 to today's record revenues.

I am deeply grateful to David for his four decades of service to the people of New Mexico. Our state is immeasurably better off because of his steadfast leadership. I wish him the very best in his retirement."

Statement from House Appropriations and Finance Committee Chairman Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces):
"For over 25 years, under Director Abbey's steady leadership, the Legislative Finance Committee has provided lawmakers with the critical guidance we need to be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. He has set a high standard for all others to follow and assembled an incredible team who deliver an invaluable service to our state.

Throughout his tenure, David has always put the people of New Mexico first and led with prudence, thoughtfulness, and tenacity. I am thankful to David for his long career in public service and wish him well in this next chapter."

Director Abbey will continue to lead the LFC through the end of May and will work with the management team and lawmakers to ensure a smooth transition. The LFC, which meets between legislative sessions, will select the next committee director.