Rebecca Dow, a state representative for the New Mexico House of Representatives, has condemned the state's child welfare agency and called for immediate action to protect foster children. Her statement followed a critical report on the Children, Youth & Families Department (CYFD) and was made public on X.
"New report of CYFD is disgusting," said Dow, House Representative. "If you care about children—do something. Universal childcare—even for millionaires—was announced the day after MLG lost her 4th CYFD secretary. NM kids in foster care are in crisis, and the Governor wants you looking the other way."
New Mexico's CYFD has been under scrutiny for years due to case management failures and leadership turnover. According to reports, four secretaries have resigned under Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham amid ongoing issues of neglect and mismanagement within the department.
The New Mexico Legislative Finance Committee reports that more than 2,000 children are currently in state foster care. Caseworker shortages and backlogs have been identified as significant contributors to oversight failures and delayed placements.
The Center for the Study of Social Policy (CSSP) recently published findings highlighting structural issues within CYFD. These include inconsistent supervision, delayed investigations, and limited accountability mechanisms for child welfare staff.
Dow is a Republican legislator representing Truth or Consequences. She is known for her advocacy on child welfare reform, education, and family policy. Dow has consistently called for increased accountability within CYFD and stronger protections for foster youth.
