New Mexico panel approves final two regional behavioral health plans
New Mexico's Behavioral Health Reform and Investment Act Executive Committee on Tuesday approved the final two of 13 regional behavioral health plans, covering regions 4 (Mora, San Miguel, Guadalupe counties) and 12 (Lincoln, Otero counties), completing approval of all 13 regional plans required under the 2025 law. The two plans carry a combined cost of nearly $13.5 million and target workforce recruitment, housing, and treatment infrastructure gaps left after a 2013 fraud scandal drove providers from the state. The law created 13 regions modeled on judicial districts, with local officials identifying behavioral health needs. Despite completing the milestone, some lawmakers and local officials continue to criticize the committee for slow progress, unclear goals, and insufficient coordination with tribal leaders.