Bill > SB405

This bill establishes a Bipartisan Blue Ribbon Behavioral Health Statutory Review Committee to function until June 30, 2027, composed of subject matter experts appointed by the New Mexico Legislative Council. The committee will create a Criminal Justice Policy Collaborative Task Force with representatives from judicial districts, district attorneys, and public defenders to evaluate and improve behavioral health care for marginalized populations. The committee will meet at least twice monthly, elect its own leadership, and focus on developing statewide policies for trauma-informed treatment court programs addressing both addiction and mental health. Its key responsibilities include examining current behavioral health laws, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and proposing comprehensive reforms based on successful practices from other states. The committee is required to submit a detailed report with specific recommendations and proposed legislation to the governor, appropriate legislative committees, and the Supreme Court Commission on Mental Health by October 1, 2026. The bill also appropriates $300,000 from the general fund to support the committee's work, covering staff salaries and per diem expenses for members who are not public employees. Members will be entitled to reimbursement for mileage and per diem but no additional compensation, and the committee will have the ability to hire expert staff to assist in its research and recommendation development.

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=405&year=25