New Mexico is set to hold the inaugural meeting of its Behavioral Health Reform Executive Committee, marking a significant step in implementing Senate Bill 3. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, June 24, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Senate Finance Committee Room in Santa Fe.
"This meeting marks the beginning of a coordinated effort to put Senate Bill 3 into action," stated Kari Armijo, secretary of the New Mexico Health Care Authority. She emphasized the commitment to building a behavioral health system that serves New Mexicans and incorporates community input.
Senate Bill 3 received strong bipartisan support as it aims to address gaps in behavioral and substance use services across New Mexico. The legislation unites government branches and community leaders to reshape the state's behavioral health system. The Executive Committee's role is to guide implementation and develop strategies for transparency, regional equity, and public engagement.
Karl W. Reifsteck, director for the Administrative Office of the Courts, expressed gratitude for this new role: "We are honored the Legislature gave us this new role and this meeting is an important first step with our partners to rebuilding New Mexico’s behavioral health system."
The public can attend via Zoom using Meeting ID: 837 7490 0843 or by phone through provided numbers. Agenda highlights include committee member introductions, updates on implementation activities from AOC and HCA, presentations on behavioral health regions, discussions on public input procedures, reporting accountability, and more.
For accommodations such as sign language interpreters or alternative formats, contact Lisa Noriega at lisa.noriega@hca.nm.gov one week before the meeting.
Senate Bill 3 aims to transform New Mexico’s behavioral health care systems by creating a framework for collaboration and sustained investment ensuring timely access to quality care statewide.
Meeting details are available on the HCA website.
