Legislation would enhance independent oversight and increased transparency
to New Mexico's Children, Youth and Families Department

Santa Fe, N.M. – Today, the House Government, Elections and Indian Affairs Committee (HGEIC) voted unanimously to advance two measures to bring greater transparency and independent oversight to New Mexico's Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD).

House Bill 203 would require CYFD workers to retain and back up all electronic records. Maintaining these records is critical for transparency and oversight, particularly in cases where a child is harmed, so processes can be reviewed and potentially improved going forward.

House Bill 205 would strengthen plans of care for substance-exposed newborns, move responsibility for the CARA (Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act) program from CYFD to the Healthcare Authority, and create a nominating committee to vet CYFD Cabinet Secretary candidates.

"As the state agency tasked with protecting the well-being of children across New Mexico, CYFD must have proper oversight and be transparent in their work," said Rep. Meredith Dixon (D-Albuquerque), who is the lead sponsor on both bills. "Requiring thorough case documentation and instituting independent governance are important steps to improve accountability at the agency and start rebuilding public trust in CYFD."

To better protect the well-being of children in New Mexico, House Democrats are pushing for several reforms to increase oversight, transparency, and accountability at CYFD.

In addition to the bills passed by HGEIC today, House Democrats are pursuing legislation to:

Allow voters to decide whether to shift governance of CYFD from the Governor to a new, independent commission that would appoint CYFD leadership (HJR 5), which passed HGEIC last week.

*Note: this measure overlaps with HB 205, but does not conflict with it. If both are passed, the nominating commission would be in place until voters approve the amendment in 2026.

Expand access to medication assisted treatment for juveniles in CYFD's care (HB 152), which passed the House Health and Human Services Committee last week
Create an independent Office of the Child Advocate to provide greater independent oversight of CYFD (HB 5)
Ensure children in CYFD's care receive their federal benefits (HB 364)

Members of the public are welcome to attend floor sessions and committee meetings at the New Mexico Roundhouse, and can tune in virtually through the New Mexico Legislature's Webcasts tab. Public comment can also be provided in-person, and via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.