REPORTING ON CHILDREN STAYING IN CYFD OFFICES

HB 181 requires New Mexico's Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) to report on children in their custody who stay overnight in CYFD offices. The bill appropriates $100,000 to fund weekly reports to the Office of Child Advocate and monthly reports to three legislative committees, detailing the number of children, reasons for overnight stays, duration, and current status. It does not change placement policies but mandates regular data collection on this specific practice. The reporting obligation applies to fiscal years 2027-2028, with unspent funds reverting to the general fund.