STUDY FAIR FOSTER PARENT COMPENSATION

House Memorial 59 requests the New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department to study fair compensation for foster parents, including a cost-of-living allowance. The study will examine personal expenses foster parents incur while caring for children in state custody and determine appropriate compensation levels. The department must report findings and recommendations to the legislative health and human services committee by November 30, 2026. This memorial does not change current compensation but initiates a formal review process.