The New Mexico Children Youth and Families Department is being urged to address child abuse underreporting. | pixabay
The New Mexico Children Youth and Families Department is being urged to address child abuse underreporting. | pixabay
In response to a noticeable drop in child abuse reporting, the New Mexico Children Youth and Families Department (CYFD) is being urged to address the issue as school shutdowns continue.
During a recent Legislative Finance Council interim meeting, a report revealed suspected child abuse reporting decreased by 42% in April and 33% in May. Data shows 20% of reported child abuse cases come from educators.
The House GOP Legislative Education Study Committee members including Republicans Rebecca Dow, David Gallegos, Tim Lewis, Alonzo Baldonado, Kelly Fajardo, along with Albuquerque Public Schools Board of Education Member Peggy Muller-Aragon signed a letter to CYFD Cabinet Secretary Brian Blalock.
The letter, posted on the NM House GOP website, said although those whose signed it are happy students will be able to get back in the classroom, due to the decisions of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham's (D-NM) administration some children will keep being in "increasingly stressful home environments." Those who signed the letter said it could mean behavioral health issues down the road.
"Having the Children Youth and Families Department engaged and with a plan will help legislators, and other concerned officials to determine what resources and programs may be necessary now and in the future to address this problem," the letter stated.
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