Bill > SB488

This bill makes several significant changes to the Legislative Health and Human Services Committee in New Mexico, transforming it from an interim to a permanent committee with expanded powers and responsibilities. The bill increases the committee's membership from eight to twelve members, with six representatives from the House of Representatives appointed by the Speaker and six from the Senate appointed by the Senate's Committees Committee or the President Pro Tempore. The committee will now have year-round staff with expertise in health care and human services law, policy, and finance. The bill grants the committee enhanced investigative powers, including the ability to request information from state agencies, conduct hearings, administer oaths, and issue subpoenas that can be enforced through district courts. The chair and vice chair positions will now rotate between House and Senate members every two years, ensuring balanced leadership. Additionally, the bill requires the committee to monitor and oversee health and human services programs, policies, and issues, and to produce an annual report with findings and legislative recommendations. To support these new responsibilities, the bill includes a $500,000 appropriation from the general fund to support the committee's staffing and activities in fiscal years 2025 and 2026.

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https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=S&legtype=B&legno=488&year=25