Senator Crystal Brantley said that the Children, Youth, and Families Department's (CYFD) request for a 6.1% budget increase lacks reform and collaboration. Brantley made this statement during a Legislative Finance Committee meeting in Elephant Butte on December 10.
"Five budget sessions in a row, the mantra from CYFD remains the same—all plans, no action," said Brantley, District 35 NM State Senator. "The Secretary and this administration have shown no willingness to partner with us on any serious reform or oversight effort. They continually show up with their hand out asking for more money from the Legislature. Legislators from every corner of the state are fed up with the lack of collaboration and I hope to see that rectified before pumping more money into this failing agency."
According to the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration, CYFD has proposed a 6.1% increase in its budget for fiscal year 2025, seeking additional funding to support its programs and operations. This increase follows previous requests in recent years, reflecting CYFD's claims of ongoing need for resources to address systemic challenges.
Brantley noted that CYFD has repeatedly requested budget increases over multiple sessions without implementing significant reform or engaging in collaborative efforts with lawmakers. She said that legislators from across the state have raised concerns about the department’s lack of engagement on systemic changes, according to her press release.
According to its official website, CYFD is responsible for overseeing New Mexico's child welfare and family services, including foster care, adoption programs, juvenile justice, and early childhood education. The agency’s said mission is to promote the safety and well-being of children and families through prevention, intervention, and treatment services.
CYFD has faced ongoing operational and structural challenges, including staffing shortages and case management concerns. Lawmakers have repeatedly highlighted areas where improvements could be made, such as addressing turnover rates and enhancing service delivery. According to the Los Alamos Daily Post, discussions about CYFD often include calls for changes to improve outcomes for children and families in New Mexico.
Senator Brantley represents District 35, which includes Elephant Butte, New Mexico, and serves as a member of the Senate Finance Committee. According to her campaign website, she focuses on fiscal responsibility, government accountability, and improving outcomes for children and families.
