(AP) -- By DEBORAH BAKER

Associated Press Writer

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Gov. Bill Richardson has proposed a 1.5

percent cut in education spending as New Mexico lawmakers decide

how to plug a $650 million hole in this year's state budget.

The proposal on Saturday to cut public schools and colleges by

more than $40 million was a turnabout for the governor. He had

previously said he wouldn't touch education.

Richardson says his revised proposal reflects the reality of the

state's budget problems.

Richardson also made it clear as a special session got under way

that he doesn't want any tax increases to be considered. He says

that can wait until the regular session in January.

But some lawmakers are pushing various tax measures anyway.

Bills introduced included increases in tobacco and alcohol taxes

and a hike in income tax on the state's wealthiest residents.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

(Copyright ©2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)