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Clara Pena, Republican
Clara Pena
The Job of State House of Representatives: Districts 14
Write state budget and craft laws affecting schools, prison and government agencies. Two-year term. Legislators are given $144 per diem for each day in session, along with mileage reimbursement. (i) denotes incumbent.
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Candidate for District 14 state representative
Name: Clara Pena, Republican
Age: 52
Campaign Web site address: None
Occupation: Heritage Health Care
Family: Single
Education: University of New Mexico; TVI; CNM
Please list the experience you think would make you a good state representative.
The thousands of hours of volunteer work in the community, the committees and boards I have sat on involving issues within both county and city.
Have you ever been arrested or charged with a felony or misdemeanor? If yes, explain.
No.
What is the best meal you can cook from scratch?
Arroz con pollo
Last book you read:
"Old Father Story Teller" by Pablita Velarde, read to a children's group
What was your biggest mistake in life and what lesson did you learn?
In life, I have learned that each day can be a challenge and from time to time we make mistakes. In how we deal with each issue, educating ourselves and others, it is hoped that the outcome will be positive or a road to a new beginning.
A recent report by the Fiscal Policy Institute found that states with a minimum wage above $5.15 have had faster job growth in the small business and retail trade sector than states with the federal minimum wage. Given that, would you support a statewide minimum wage of $7.50 Why or why not?
Yes; keep up with inflation.
The Legislature in 2007 will consider some ethics reforms. What one change would you make to improve ethics in our state government.
My understanding is a committee on ethics reform is presently being set up. I recall a bill in the past, referring to anyone accepting money for contracts or services as a felon, was shelved. This is a bill that needs to be brought back from the dead or something should be created that will protect the taxpayers of our state from fraud.
Would you vote to repeal the death penalty in New Mexico?
Undecided.
Would you support and fund a way for the Legislature to keep better tabs on public building projects?
Yes.
Would you support a measure that would allow chronically ill patients to use marijuana?
Undecided.
What more should New Mexico do in response to drought?
Xeriscape; water rights; continue to find new ways to improve irrigation for crops; recycle.
What can be done to improve the state's public schools?
Continue to build new schools where needed. Refurbish schools that badly need it. Bring in new technology to schools were needed.
Is the current system for allocating the state's capital improvement money working? Why or why not? What specifically would you change?
I believe the current system of being able to request for money for needs in your area is working. But the big question is will the governor line-item by using the veto pen with that specific item.
Should the state build another prison to deal with the increasing inmate population?
No.
Would you support an increase in lawmaker per diem or a salaried Legislature? Did not answer.
What is the greatest need in your district?
Completion of La Familia Clinic. Improvements to West Side Community Center with additional rooms and parking, storm drains in Barelas, Armijo and Atrisco, completion of Little League Field on Sunset, just to name a few.
How long have you lived in your district?
Born and raised in my district, approximately 50 years.
