SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) – A bill passed its first committee on Friday. It would change how the Children, Youth, and Family Department (CYFD) secretary is selected.
SJR 6 would create a commission to appoint a secretary to oversee the department, taking the choice out of the governor’s hands.
Proponents said the change would add stability to a child welfare agency that has seen widespread issues for several years.
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Newly-confirmed Secretary Teresa Casados expressed concerns about the change.
The Senate Rules Committee advanced the bill by a six to three vote. However, there was one amendment: making it a five-person commission instead of three with no more than three members of the same political party.
It must still go through the Judiciary and Finance Committee before going to the Senate floor.
If it clears the legislature, it would go to voters for approval.
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