Group’s relief funds staying put
Alexandra Swanberg | April 13The UNM Japanese Language Club tried to withdraw funds it raised from its ASUNM account to give to the Japan relief effort, but discovered doing so would violate of the New Mexico State Constitution. The Anti-Donation Clause, article IX, section 14 of the New Mexico Constitution states that, “Neither the state nor any county, school district or municipality shall directly or indirectly lend or pledge its credit or make any donation to or in aid of any person, association or public or private corporation.” Because of the law, University policy prohibits organizations from donating funds in ASUNM accounts to any charitable or political organizations. George Gorospe, president of the UNM Japanese Language Club, said the club wanted to donate to Japan with money from fundraisers the club sponsored to support itself.
