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Santa Fe, NM (KKOB) — The state has approved $24.4 million in early access funding to expand behavioral health services across New Mexico, allowing communities to address gaps in care while longer-term regional plans are developed.
The funding, to be administered by the New Mexico Health Care Authority, totals $24,473,462 and was authorized under Senate Bill 3, which passed during the 2025 legislative session. The money will allow the 13 designated behavioral health regions to begin implementing services while comprehensive multi-year regional behavioral health plans are still in development.
“This funding puts decisions closer to the communities delivering care,” said Kari Armijo, cabinet secretary at New Mexico Health Care Authority. “It gives communities the ability to act now, expand services earlier and faster, and meet people where they are.”
Funding supports four core access shortages: residential treatment, crisis services, medication-assisted treatment for justice-involved individuals, and prenatal and perinatal substance use disorder programs. According to a Authority press release, working with community organizations, tribal partners, health care providers, and other key stakeholders, behavioral health regions developed projects and initiatives to expand behavioral health care for youth, adults and families.
Applications for funding were open from Nov. 4, 2025 through Dec.19, 2025. The Health Care Authority expects to announce awards next week.
