Bill > SB489

This bill modifies existing New Mexico law regarding behavioral health consent for children aged fourteen and older, specifically in cases involving children who have been adjudicated as abused or neglected. Currently, children in this age group can consent to various mental health treatments like psychotherapy, counseling, and substance abuse treatment without their legal custodian's consent. The bill adds a new provision that allows the children's court to require these children to participate in behavioral health services or treatment if, after a hearing and careful review of evidence, the court determines such services are in the child's best interest and necessary to promote their health, safety, or welfare. This change gives the children's court additional authority to mandate mental health interventions for abused or neglected children over fourteen years old, with the explicit goal of supporting their recovery and well-being. The bill maintains existing protections that require clinicians to promote family involvement in treatment planning while preserving the child's rights to consent to services and disclosure of mental health records.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=489&year=25