Bill > SB585

This bill establishes a process for the office of military base planning and support to commission a comprehensive study assessing New Mexico's strengths and advantages in supporting the strategic objectives of the U.S. Department of Defense, with the goal of retaining and expanding military missions and defense industry within the state. The study, to be conducted by an independent contractor selected through a request for proposals (RFP), will analyze how New Mexico's military installations, communities, and resources align with current and future federal criteria for military restructuring, including factors like military value, community support, geography, quality of life, education, economy, transportation, and technological capabilities. The contractor must have substantial experience in analyzing military installations, defense department strategic plans, and the economic impact of defense activities, and the report, due by April 15, 2016, will be provided to various state and federal officials and made available to legislators. The bill also appropriates $300,000 from the general fund to the office of military base planning and support for fiscal year 2016 to carry out these provisions.