New Mexico bishops meet with Governor Richardson:

New Mexico’s three Catholic bishops met with Gov. Bill Richardson on Thursday to urge him to reconsider proposed state funding for embryonic stem cell research.

The governor’s budget in brief, submitted on the opening day of the session, includes $3.8 million in capital outlay funding and $2.2 million in recurring funds to build a new facility for stem cell research.

Archbishop Michael J. Sheehan of the Santa Fe diocese said Richardson listened to their appeal, but did not make any commitment.

"The governor will consider their concerns," Richardson spokesman Gilbert Gallegos said.