FENTANYL EXPOSURE AS CHILD ABUSE

HB 136 amends New Mexico's child abuse statute to explicitly include knowingly exposing a child to fentanyl use as "prima facie evidence" of child abuse. This change directly affects parents, guardians, or caregivers who allow children to be present during fentanyl use. The bill adds a specific provision (Section J) stating that such exposure automatically meets the legal standard for proving abuse, making it easier for authorities to pursue cases. It does not create new crimes but strengthens existing legal evidence for prosecuting abuse involving fentanyl. The bill is pending with a postponed committee hearing and would take effect July 1, 2025, if enacted.