The bill amends Section 32A-3B-6 of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated 1978 to require a behavioral health assessment for children prior to their entry into foster care. Specifically, it mandates that within forty-five days of placing a child into foster care, the department must provide a child and adolescent needs and strengths trauma assessment and make referrals to appropriate behavioral health services based on the assessment results. This addition aims to ensure that children entering the foster care system receive necessary mental health evaluations and support.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of placing children with relatives when possible, provided it is in the child's best interest and certain conditions are met. The effective date for the provisions of this act is set for July 1, 2025. This legislative change reflects a commitment to addressing the behavioral health needs of children in foster care, thereby enhancing their overall well-being during a critical transition in their lives.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 32A-3B-6