House Passes Tribal Agreements for Early Childhood Education

Ensures intergovernmental coordination with tribal communities on early childhood programs

Santa Fe, NM - House Bill 148, Early Childhood Department Tribal Agreements, unanimously passed the House of Representatives today. 

This bill would require the Early Childhood Education and Care Department to enter into intergovernmental agreements to plan and administer early childhood programs with nations, tribes, and pueblos who request it. Under these intergovernmental agreements, tribal communities would establish linguistically relevant standards, assessments, and evaluations for early childhood education programs. 

“The sovereignty of New Mexico’s nations, tribes, and pueblos includes authority over our children’s most formative years,” said Rep. Lente. “By ensuring that tribal entities have a seat at the table within our Early Childhood Education and Care Department, we can help preserve our Native languages and cultures. Together, we can create impactful programs that are tailored to our unique tribal communities and traditions.”

House Bill 148 will now move to the Senate for consideration.  

The Roundhouse is open to the public for the 2023 session. Members of the public can also view floor sessions and committee meetings on the New Mexico Legislature’s Webcasts tab, and provide comment via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.   

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