NATIVE AMERICAN OMBUD ACT

SB 308 creates the Office of the Native American Ombud within New Mexico's Indian Affairs Department to address concerns raised by Native Americans. The ombud investigates complaints about state services (like legal aid or healthcare access), maintains strict confidentiality, and issues annual reports with recommendations for improving services. It requires all service providers to prominently display the ombud's contact information and prohibits retaliation against those who file concerns. The bill appropriates $2 million to fund this office and mandates annual reporting on resolved concerns and policy improvements.