Bill > HB556

This bill amends New Mexico state law to include community health workers in the definition of and licensure requirements for "instructional support providers". Specifically, the bill modifies two sections of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated (NMSA) to add community health workers to the list of professionals who are considered instructional support providers and who must obtain appropriate licensure from the Public Education Department. Previously, the definition of instructional support providers included roles such as educational assistants, school counselors, social workers, nurses, therapists, and diagnosticians, but did not explicitly mention community health workers. The bill ensures that community health workers will now be recognized as part of the school support system and will need to meet the same licensing requirements as other instructional support providers. This change reflects a broader recognition of the important role community health workers can play in supporting students' educational and health needs within school settings. The bill requires these workers to maintain valid professional licenses and certificates, and outlines potential consequences for failing to do so, such as suspension or revocation of their instructional support provider license.

Education

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=556&year=25