CHILD PROTECTION AUTHORITY ACT

SB 363 creates a new Child Protection Authority to oversee child welfare services in New Mexico, directly affecting the Children, Youth and Families Department, foster care systems, and families involved in child welfare cases. The Authority will investigate complaints about child abuse/neglect handling, monitor department policies, issue public reports, and operate a complaint hotline - without subpoena power - while maintaining confidentiality for complainants. Key provisions include a 9-member governing board (appointed by the governor and legislature), annual reporting requirements, and protections for whistleblowers. The bill was referred to committees but was postponed indefinitely on June 3, 2025.