This bill amends the Abuse and Neglect Act and the Family Violence Protection Act to enhance the reporting and notification processes when allegations of child abuse or domestic violence involve members of the United States military. Specifically, it requires that if a local law enforcement agency or the department identifies a military member in connection with a report of abuse or neglect, they must notify a designated authority at the relevant military installation. Additionally, the bill mandates that local law enforcement agencies and the department pursue memoranda of understanding with military installations in New Mexico to streamline this notification process.
Furthermore, the bill introduces provisions for remote appearances in court hearings related to domestic violence orders of protection, allowing parties to participate digitally or via telephone if requested. It also stipulates that copies of domestic violence orders of protection must be sent to the designated military authority if a party involved is a military member. These changes aim to improve communication and coordination between civilian authorities and military installations regarding cases of abuse and neglect.
Statutes affected: introduced version: 32A-4-3, 40-13-3, 40-13-6, 40-13-7