Bill > HB38

This bill amends existing New Mexico law regarding the disposition of public property, specifically focusing on tangible personal property that is worn out, unusable, or obsolete. It clarifies that state agencies, local public bodies, school districts, and state educational institutions can dispose of such property if it's no longer economical or safe to use. The bill introduces new criteria for disposition based on the item's "net book value," which is its value on an organization's accounting records. If an item has a net book value between $100 and $5,000, its disposition requires a specific finding by the governing authority and approval from a committee of at least three officials, with notification sent to the state auditor. If the net book value is less than $100, the chief procurement officer can make the determination for disposition. The bill outlines various methods for disposing of this property, including negotiated sales or donations to other governmental entities, competitive sealed bids, public auctions, or through the surplus property bureau. It also allows for sales or donations to 501(c)(3) organizations if other methods fail, and ultimately permits destruction if the property cannot be disposed of otherwise or is hazardous. Notably, the bill includes provisions for the disposition of K-9 dogs, offering them first to their trainer or handler, then to a 501(c)(3) organization, and finally to a qualified individual. The Department of Transportation is also given specific authority to sell surplus road-related property exceeding $5,000 in value through public auction.