Congresswoman Heather Wilson, First Congressional District of New Mexico

Major Funding Bill Has $1.8 Million in Wilson Requests for Health, Schools & Seniors

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Heather Wilson today announced six of her requests for important New Mexico projects, totaling $1.8 million, passed the House today in the Labor, Health & Human Services and Education Appropriations Act of fiscal year 2008 by a vote of 276-140.

The bill, H.R. 3043, will now await consideration by the U.S. Senate. Three of Wilson’s requests for New Mexico in this bill are for key education priorities – improving math, science and reading opportunities, and helping preserve Native Languages. Two projects focus on improving healthcare, and the other project benefits seniors in an independent-living community.

“These are worthy healthcare and education efforts that make a difference where there are needs,” Wilson said. “Our students must be prepared to lead and compete in the jobs of the 21^st Century. Access to quality, affordable health care is always a top priority.”

Wilson Projects in the Labor/HHS Appropriations Act:

• New Mexico Public Education Department for summer reading and math institutes throughout the State for intensive teacher training opportunities to improve student achievement in these crucial subject areas – $500,000.
• Rio Rancho Public Schools, Rio Rancho, to provide access and equipment for distance learning opportunities for rural students in upper level math and science – $500,000.
• Community Dental Services, Albuquerque, for planned facilities and new equipment to serve South Valley residents – $300,000.
• Sandoval County, Town of Bernalillo, for a telemedicine initiative, including purchase of equipment to go to patients for diagnosis and exams, serving the fastest growing county in New Mexico – $200,000.
• University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, for the American Indian Language Policy Research and Teacher Training Center to train instructors and conduct research to help preserve Native American languages – $200,000.
• Jewish Family Service of New Mexico, Albuquerque, for a naturally occurring retirement community demonstration project, benefiting independent living seniors – $100,000.