NM SM32

Requests the Legislative Finance Committee to study statewide transportation barriers for students in foster care, with a report due by November 1, 2026

Students in foster care nationwide miss twice as many school days as other students, and a 2024 LFC evaluation found transportation issues account for about 15% of student absences

Federal law requires schools receiving Title I, Part A funding to provide transportation for foster students to remain in their school of origin, but funding sources remain unclear—including reimbursement from CYFD, local education agency payment, federal funds, or cost-sharing agreements

The Children, Youth and Families Department contracted with two third-party transportation providers in 2025, but those contracts have since been terminated

The study would examine existing barriers, analyze recent proposals for reimbursements and tax credits, identify funding gaps, and recommend strategies for comprehensive and consistent funding