The bill amends New Mexico's public assistance laws to improve work readiness and support for participants in public assistance programs. Key provisions include a requirement for the department to process applications for supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits within two business days and to deliver benefits within seven days. It also mandates a resource planning session within thirty days of application and an assessment of participants' education and employability within fifteen days of approval. The bill emphasizes the creation of individual responsibility plans outlining employment goals and obligations, along with a semiannual review process to ensure accountability.

Additionally, the bill modifies financial eligibility criteria by increasing the allowable resource limits for benefit groups to $15,000 for both nonliquid and liquid resources. It introduces a new sanction structure for noncompliance with work requirements, replacing the previous termination of cash assistance with the option to remove the noncompliant adult from the benefit group for a specified period. The bill also includes provisions for the Education Works Program, requiring the department to assist applicants with cash assistance applications and to develop individual educational plans for recipients. Overall, the bill aims to create a more supportive framework for individuals transitioning from public assistance to employment while ensuring compliance with program requirements.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 27-2B-4, 27-2B-7, 27-2B-8, 27-2D-3, 27-2D-4, 27-2D-5, 27-2D-6, 27-2D-9
PA substitute: 27-2B-4, 27-2B-7, 27-2B-8, 27-2D-3, 27-2D-4, 27-2D-5, 27-2D-6, 27-2D-9