SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico can move ahead with establishing a state-run health insurance exchange under legislation signed into law Thursday by Republican Gov. Susana Martinez.

Martinez is one of a small number of GOP governors to opt for a state-run exchange under President Barack Obama's health care overhaul. States had the option of establishing their own exchange, leaving it to the federal government or forming a state-federal partnership.

The new law takes effect immediately, and one of the next steps is the appointment of a 13-member governing board for the exchange.

The exchange is to serve as a marketplace for the uninsured to buy medical coverage. One of the early decisions for the board likely will be selecting a contractor to establish a computer system, which will allow individuals and small businesses to shop online for health care plans offered by private insurers.

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