Bill > HB537

This bill requires each post-secondary educational institution in New Mexico (except military and specialized schools for the blind and deaf) to designate a full-time staff member as a "higher education liaison" for students experiencing homelessness. The liaison, who will be drawn from offices like financial aid or student services, must proactively identify students who have indicated homelessness on federal student aid applications, inform them about campus and community resources, help them complete financial aid applications, assist with managing coursework, and develop training materials for faculty to recognize and refer students experiencing homelessness. The Higher Education Department is tasked with collaborating with the New Mexico Basic Needs Consortium to provide training for liaisons and conducting an annual survey about students experiencing homelessness, which will be published on their website. The bill also includes a $500,000 appropriation from the general fund to support training efforts in fiscal year 2026, with any unused funds to be returned to the general fund. The goal is to provide comprehensive support and resources for college students facing housing insecurity.

Education

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=537&year=25