New Mexico considers pension forfeiture in corruption cases
SANTA FE, N.M. -- New Mexico state elected officials who are convicted or plead guilty to corruption-related charges would automatically forfeit certain pension benefits, under a proposal that responds to a string of high-profile scandals.
The bill from Democratic Rep. Matthew McQueen of Santa Fe and Republican Sen. Mark Moores of Albuquerque would erase certain retirement benefits when an elected official is convicted of corruption-related charges such as fraud, bribery, perjury or kickbacks.
Convicted officials would retain pension benefits accrued during any prior government service in unelected positions — but lose retirement credits linked to their elected posts.
Moores said many of his constituents are incensed by public officials retaining pension benefits after convictions related to wrongdoing in office.
Read more here: http://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/politics-government/national-politics/article195898404.html