Indian Child Welfare Act Unanimously Passes Committee

Santa Fe, NM-  HB 135, the Indian Child Welfare Act, which would require New Mexico’s Children Youth and Families Division (CYFD) to prioritize placing Native American children within their tribes and keeping Native families together, passed the House Health & Human Services Committee this morning with a unanimous bipartisan vote.

When Native American children are placed into custody outside of tribal and familial environments, it can result in children becoming disconnected from their cultural identity and heritage. HB 135 would also require CYFD to help children determine and establish tribal membership. Placing Native children within their tribe would protect family units and preserve traditions and cultures. 

This bill would provide many of the same protections for New Mexico’s Native American children as the federal Indian Child Welfare Act, which is currently before the US Supreme Court and could be struck down. 

“With federal protections at risk, we must act now to prevent Native American children from being separated from their communities and tribal heritage,” said Representative Georgene Louis (D-Albuquerque). “Maintaining these cultural and familial connections is critical for the well-being of these kids and their tribes for generations to come.”

HB 135 is sponsored by Representative Louis and was developed with input from New Mexico’s pueblos and tribal nations.

The Roundhouse is open to the public for the session. Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination will be required to enter the building. Members of the public can 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.