BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROGRAM FINANCIAL AID

HB 347 allocates $10 million from New Mexico's general fund to provide scholarships and paid internships for students in bachelor's and master's degree programs in behavioral health fields (including substance addiction counseling) at state universities and tribal colleges. It directly affects New Mexico residents enrolled in these programs by supporting their education costs and practical training. The bill requires institutions to certify that this funding supplements, not replaces, existing program funding, and distributes funds based on 2024 enrollment numbers. The funding is intended for fiscal years 2026-2027, with unspent balances reverting to the general fund by the end of 2027.