The bill seeks to improve child welfare in New Mexico by mandating the Children, Youth and Families Department to establish a statewide Multilevel Response System and implement the Families First Act within the Children's Code. It emphasizes the development of a strategic plan that aligns with the federal Family First Prevention Services Act, focusing on foster care prevention services. The bill requires collaboration with other state departments, sets confidentiality standards for certain records, and outlines the department's responsibilities in delivering these services. Notably, it replaces the term "regulations" with "rules" concerning child disposition and placement, and introduces new duties for the department, including the creation of a Families First strategic plan.

Furthermore, the bill specifies amendments to the predisposition study in child custody cases, mandating the inclusion of an intervention plan that details services for the child and family, particularly referencing "families first services." It also highlights the importance of considering the child's proximity to their home and significant relationships during placement decisions. The bill updates confidentiality provisions for records in neglect or abuse cases, allowing access to certain records by staff of the substitute care advisory council while ensuring sensitive information is protected. The provisions are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with a timeline for pilot program implementation by June 30, 2027, and full statewide implementation by June 30, 2032.

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