Bill > SJR2

This Joint Resolution proposes to amend the New Mexico Constitution by adding a new section that establishes a comprehensive set of rights for children in the state, aiming to ensure their well-being and development. These rights include access to timely and accessible medical and dental care, solution-focused and culturally sensitive behavioral health care for families, nutritious food without experiencing hunger or stigma, and stable, healthy, and safe housing with essential utilities and internet access. Furthermore, children would have the right to transportation for accessing educational, recreational, and vital services, as well as the right to live in communities offering home visitation programs from birth to support safe households and parental education. The resolution also advocates for early childhood learning programs to prepare children for school, fully resourced community schools with enriching academic and cultural experiences and school-based health centers, and various youth mentorship programs to foster recreational activities and improve academic and interpersonal skills. Finally, it includes the right for children to acquire skills necessary for quality employment through education aligned with job markets and job readiness programs. The New Mexico Legislature is mandated to enact laws to implement these provisions by the end of the fifty-seventh legislature, and this proposed amendment will be put to a vote by the people at the next general election or a prior special election.