Bill > SB362

This bill amends the definition of a "family in need of court-ordered services" in New Mexico law by expanding the circumstances under which a court can intervene in family matters. The bill adds a new provision that allows court intervention when the Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) has substantiated allegations of child abuse or neglect against a parent, guardian, or legal custodian, but determined that filing an abuse or neglect petition was not in the child's best interest. Previously, the law outlined specific situations such as chronic school absence, child running away, or child prostitution that could trigger court intervention. The new provision creates an additional pathway for court involvement when CYFD believes that court intervention is necessary to ensure the child's safety and well-being or to help the family access needed services, even if a formal abuse or neglect petition is not pursued. This change provides an additional mechanism for protecting children and supporting families in situations where CYFD has identified potential risks but does not believe a full legal proceeding is immediately warranted.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=362&year=25