The New Mexico Youth Film and Media Development Act establishes a framework for promoting youth engagement in film and media through a grant program administered by the Higher Education Department. The act creates the "youth film and media grant fund," which will be financed through various sources, including appropriations and donations, with a maximum of $250,000 allocated for grants each fiscal year. The program aims to support organizations that provide filmmaking opportunities for youth aged twelve to eighteen, particularly focusing on rural and tribal communities to enhance access to career opportunities in the film industry.

Additionally, the act mandates that grant recipients submit annual reports detailing the use of funds, the number of youth served, and the impact of their projects. An appropriation of $1.5 million from the general fund is designated for the youth film and media grant fund for fiscal year 2026 and beyond, ensuring that any unspent funds do not revert to the general fund. The provisions of this act will take effect on July 1, 2025.