Richardson backs new regent screening

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Gov. Bill Richardson is backing a proposal to create a screening panel to recommend candidates for boards of regents at New Mexico research universities.

Richardson's office said Wednesday the governor supported the proposal suggested to him by leaders of the University of New Mexico Faculty Senate.

The proposal would apply to selection of regents at UNM, New Mexico State University and New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology.

Richardson supports the creation of a committee to screen and recommend candidates to the governor for possible nomination to fill regent vacancies. The governor would continue to make the final selection and appointment.

Richardson plans to issue an executive order in coming weeks on the proposal. He is in Cuba this week on a trade mission.