Bill > HB181

This bill appropriates $100,000 from the general fund to the Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) for fiscal years 2027 and 2028 to track and report on children in its custody who are forced to stay overnight in an office, a situation that can occur when there are insufficient placement options. The CYFD will be required to provide weekly reports to the Office of Child Advocate, an independent body that advocates for children's rights, and monthly reports to specific legislative committees, including those focused on courts, corrections, justice, health, human services, and finance. These reports must detail the total number of children experiencing such overnight stays, the reasons for these stays, how long they last, and what actions are taken to resolve the situation. Any funds not spent by the end of fiscal year 2028 will be returned to the general fund.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=181&year=26