The proposed bill aims to enhance child welfare in New Mexico by mandating the Children, Youth and Families Department to implement a statewide Multilevel Response System and enact the Families First Act within the Children's Code. It requires the development of a strategic plan that aligns with the federal Family First Prevention Services Act, focusing on foster care prevention services. The bill emphasizes collaboration with other state departments, establishes confidentiality requirements for certain records, and outlines the department's responsibilities in delivering these services. Key provisions include creating a comprehensive database for tracking services, implementing prevention and early intervention strategies, and requiring annual reporting on the system's outcomes.

Significant changes in the bill include replacing the term "regulations" with "rules" regarding child placement control, adding a new section defining the Families First Act and its services, and establishing a timeline for implementation. The bill specifies that the department must submit its strategic plan for federal approval by September 1, 2025, and outlines processes for monitoring and evaluating service effectiveness. Additionally, it amends existing laws on predisposition studies in child custody cases, requiring intervention plans to include "families first services provided pursuant to the Families First Act" and referrals to income support. The bill also modifies confidentiality provisions related to records in neglect or abuse proceedings, allowing access to certain records by authorized individuals while maintaining privacy. The provisions are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 9-2A-3, 9-2A-6, 9-2A-8, 32A-1-4, 32A-3A-13, 32A-3A-14, 32A-4-3, 32A-4-4.1, 32A-4-21, 32A-4-33, 32A-8-2, 32A-8-4
RU substitute: 9-2A-8, 32A-4-4.1, 32A-4-21, 32A-4-33