The New Mexico State Senate has approved a $1.2 billion behavioral health package aimed at securing long-term funding for mental health services. This development was announced by State Senator William Sharer in a press release dated February 14.
"We will not solve New Mexico's crime epidemic via group therapy alone," said Sharer, New Mexico State Senator. "It is imperative that we also pass accompanying legislation that directly focuses on holding criminals accountable for their actions."
According to the press release, the Senate passed Senate Bills 1, 2, and 3 as part of what is described as the state's largest investment in mental health services. The package includes an immediate allocation of $200 million for substance abuse treatment, homelessness assistance, and other services. Additionally, $1 billion will be placed in a trust fund, with its annual interest and federal matching funds expected to generate approximately $200 million per year for ongoing behavioral health programs through the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC), thus eliminating the need for further taxpayer investment.
KFF reports that New Mexicans face significant mental health challenges, with 36.4% of adults reporting symptoms of anxiety or depression in 2023, surpassing the national average of 32.3%. The state's drug overdose death rate more than doubled from 26.3 per 100,000 in 2011 to 51.6 per 100,000 in 2021, with opioid overdoses accounting for a majority of these deaths. Additionally, New Mexico's suicide rate remains above the national average.
New Mexico faces shortages in mental health resources across many areas, affecting around 845,000 residents or about 40% of the population. This shortage particularly impacts rural and Medicaid-dependent communities. According to the New Mexico Legislature, expanding the mental health workforce is essential to meet the growing demand for mental health and substance use treatment statewide.
Sharer is a former U.S. Army officer and business owner who has represented Farmington in the New Mexico State Senate since 2000. He graduated from both New Mexico Military Institute and New Mexico State University (NMSU) and currently serves on several committees including Corporations & Transportation and Conservation.
