Shaping a Spirit of Confidence

Occasionally, we at the State Auditor's Office come upon people who think we are somehow involved in ensuring that New Mexicans pay their taxes. In truth, our role is to help make certain that tax dollars already collected are not misspent by government officials.

Very simply, we are the taxpayers, watchdog, and we relish that role.

Restoring confidence in the State Auditor's Office was one of the first challenges I came upon when my staff and I took over the agency in 1999. We've made great strides, and we'll continue to earn the trust and respect of all New Mexicans.

When it comes to tax dollars, the State Auditor does not decide where the funds are spent or how much is appropriated to various agencies and projects. Those decisions are the responsibility of other elected state officials and locally elected bodies like city councils, county commissions, school boards and others.

But they all must follow state laws, rules and regulations while spending tax money. They are also are expected to follow sound practices while accounting for that money.

That's where the State Auditor's Office comes in. You can see why independence us so important for our agency. This agency was created by the New Mexico Constitution. Stat courts have since clearly stated that the State Auditor is to work independently of all other agencies so that New Mexicans can be confident that the work we do in this office is free of favoritism and undue pressure.

Once a year, we lead thorough audits of state government books and records. Between annual audits, we make ourselves available around the state to provide information and guidance that help prevent problems from occurring.

Others are in charge of collecting taxes from New Mexicans. The State Auditor works on behalf of all citizens so that those who spend tax dollars are held accountable.