The bill amends the Public Service Law Loan Repayment Act by incorporating the Office of Family Representation and Advocacy into the definition of "public service employment" and designating its Director as a member of the Public Service Law Advisory Committee. It also introduces the Child and Family Welfare Worker Loan Repayment Act, which establishes a dedicated fund for loan repayment awards aimed at public service workers in child and family welfare. The bill outlines the department's responsibilities, criteria for loan repayment awards, and mandates annual reporting to the governor and legislature on the awards granted, including recipient details and contract cancellations.

In addition, the bill revises various sections of the New Mexico Children's Code to clarify definitions and procedures related to child custody and legal representation. It introduces key definitions such as "relative," "reservation," and "tribal court," while specifying the responsibilities of the court and the Office of Family Representation and Advocacy in appointing legal counsel for involved parties in abuse or neglect cases. The bill emphasizes cultural competency in legal representation, allows for the appointment of non-contracted attorneys when necessary, and grants the office authority to cover court costs related to guardians ad litem and counsel. It also expands the definition of "client" to include indigent parents and guardians, thereby enhancing the legal framework for child welfare and representation.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 21-22F-3, 21-22F-8, 32A-1-4, 32A-4-10, 32A-26-2, 32A-26-7, 32A-27-2, 32A-27-3