This bill proposes a reorganization of the Substitute Care Advisory Council by removing it from administrative attachment to the Regulation and Licensing Department and instead attaching it to the Attorney General. The bill outlines the transfer of all functions, personnel, appropriations, and contractual obligations related to the council from the Regulation and Licensing Department to the Attorney General. It also amends existing sections of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated (NMSA) 1978 to reflect these changes, including the composition and responsibilities of the council, which will now operate independently and oversee substitute care review boards.

Additionally, the bill includes specific amendments to the council's structure, such as the inclusion of new members with expertise in child welfare and the requirement for the council to meet at least twice a year. It also repeals a section of the NMSA that is no longer necessary. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2026. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the oversight and effectiveness of the substitute care system in New Mexico by streamlining its governance under the Attorney General's office.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 32A-8-2, 32A-8-4, 32A-8-5, 32A-8-7