Governor calls for balanced reforms to save scholarships

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The New Mexico governor wants lawmakers to try again next year to develop what she calls meaningful and balanced reforms to ensure the solvency of the state's lottery scholarship program.

Annual revenue from ticket sales has plateaued at about $40 million, while tuition costs for eligible students are expected to top $65 million a year, according to state higher education and lottery officials.

In her veto message, Martinez said she supported the spirit of the legislation but that signing the bill would result in less money being available for the lottery to reinvest in new games and offer higher payouts in hopes of boosting revenue.

Some say it could end up being a combination of changes given that state coffers already are stretched thin and volatile oil and gas prices have left New Mexico with less money to spend on government programs.