Applause ] [[ applause ] welcome governor martinez. We are pleased to have you here. Good afternoon. Lieutenant governor; Senate President pro tempore; mr. Speaker; democratic and republican leaders; esteemed members of the new mexico legislature; honorable members of the judiciary; former new mexico governors; tribal governors; senator udall; representative lujangrisham; representative lujan; distinguished guests; the states first gentleman, my husband, chuck franco; my stepson, carlo; my dear sister, lettie martinez; and, my fellow new mexicans. It is an honor to join you for the annual state of the state address and open this legislative session, where i believe our focus must be on two of the most pressing issues jobs and education. [ applause ] but first, lets turn our thoughts to the community of roswell. As we recall last weeks Tragic School shooting, lets pray for nathaniel, whos struggling with serious injuries, and for his parents, who are showing such strength. And when i sa
A Strong Economy relies on fairness and inclusion. And if we follow this, we will do three things. Create more jobs and deliver stronger education and build an economy that works for everyone. Of course, Economic Growth starts with jobs. Recovery began in january of 2010 and illinois has added 280,000 private sector jobs. Unemployment was at 11. 3 at the height of the great recession. Today it is at its lowest point in almost five years. Since last may billina has led the midwest and new jobs created. With the strong support of the Illinois Retail merchandise association, we reformed the Workers Compensation system and our Unemployment Insurance system. These reforms have saved hundreds of millions of dollars and we know that we have much more work to do. We will start with a renewed focus on Small Business. Three out of every four illinois employers are Small Businesses. In the last five years we have helped them through our advantage only program we have provided loans and investment
While were on the subject of Public Safety, im once again asking this legislature to repeal the dangerous law that gives drivers licenses to illegal immigrants. [ applause ] weve seen several fraud operations busted recently. Just last year, an elaborate scheme was uncovered in eastern new mexico where hundreds of drivers licenses were sold to illegal immigrants. The ringleader bragged that he made 30,000 a month. Ive put forward a strong compromise to repeal this law and still allow driving privileges for dreamers. Its time to act. The legislature should do what the overwhelming majority of new mexicans are demanding repeal this dangerous law. [ applause ] in addition to asking whether the state is safe, businesses often want to know will they be given a fair shake by those in government . Not special treatment, just a fair shake. Weve taken some important steps, but can do even more. Just as ive prohibited my appointees from lobbying the legislature or the administration after leavin
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