NM SB237

Creates a Critical Incident Investigation Team within the Protective Services Division of the Children, Youth and Families Department to investigate reports of abuse or neglect involving children placed in department custody at programs or facilities

Defines "critical incident" as any action or inaction implicating a child's well-being or safety at a placement location, and "serious critical incident" as allegations of abuse or neglect under specified criminal statutes

Requires investigations to commence within 24 hours of assignment and be completed within 60 days, including interviews, record reviews, site visits, and consultations with medical or behavioral health experts

Mandates written findings and notifications to the Office of Child Advocate, alleged victims and their families, placement location administrators, law enforcement when criminal activity is suspected, and any identified alleged perpetrators

Appropriates $250,000 from the general fund to the Children, Youth and Families Department for fiscal year 2027, with rules required by September 30, 2026