Enchantment State News

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has endorsed a comprehensive legislative package aimed at reforming the Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) in New Mexico. The governor is urging lawmakers to expedite the passage of this omnibus child welfare bill.

The legislation, known as SB 42, is scheduled for review by the Senate Judiciary Committee following a session on the Senate floor. "This bipartisan omnibus package will help protect our most vulnerable children, as well as those who have dedicated their careers to keeping them safe," said Lujan Grisham. She acknowledged the efforts of Senate Majority Whip Michael Padilla and House Minority Leader Gail Armstrong, along with other co-sponsors of the included bills. "I urge the New Mexico Legislature to approve this critically important CYFD reform legislation and send it to my desk as soon as possible."

Key components of the bill include transferring the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) from CYFD to the New Mexico Department of Health. This move aims to better manage programs for babies affected by substance abuse. Additionally, parents or guardians under CARA supervision who fail to comply with their plans will be referred back to CYFD.

The omnibus package also encompasses several other bills:

- SB 84 mandates changes in information sharing within CYFD, particularly concerning fatalities and near fatalities.

- SB 284 ensures that minor children in foster care are not grounds for disqualification from premises liability insurance coverage.

- SB 458 requires CYFD to submit a strategic plan under the Federal Families First Act, allowing federal funds to support families and reduce children taken into custody.

- SB 334 establishes penalties for assault and battery against CYFD welfare workers, offering protections similar to those for teachers and law enforcement.

Senate Majority Whip Michael Padilla described the reforms as "the most comprehensive reform of CYFD in decades." He emphasized that "in a session full of CYFD legislation, the legislature has united in its common goal of protecting our children." The proposed reforms aim for full CARA implementation, transparency within CYFD operations, protection for child welfare workers, and insurance benefits for children in protective services.

Padilla is also advocating for additional measures including codifying the Fostering Connections program into law and providing a $6k annual tax credit to foster families. Both initiatives have garnered support from Governor Lujan Grisham.