New Mexico’s latest legislative session is setting the stage for significant changes in the state’s health care system. In a recent episode of Legislative Updates with Larry Martinez, host Larry Martinez sat down with Deputy Cabinet Secretaries Alex Castillo-Smith and Kyra Ochoa from the New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) to discuss key proposals that could shape the future of health care access, affordability, and public safety across the state.
A major focus of the discussion was Senate Bill 376, which aims to lower health care costs for state employees by increasing the state’s contribution to 80% of health insurance costs for those enrolled in the state plan. The bill also proposes using the Health Care Affordability Fund to provide premium support for lower-income employees and members of the National Guard eligible for TRICARE Select Reserve. According to state officials, the initiative is designed to stabilize the state’s health insurance fund while ensuring cost savings without compromising patient care.
The conversation also addressed Senate Bill 189, which seeks to reform public assistance programs by eliminating outdated asset limits and easing the transition for families who face the so-called “cliff effect”—a sudden loss of benefits after a small increase in income. Under the bill, families would be allowed to save up to $30,000 for emergencies and long-term financial stability, a significant increase from the current limit of $3,500. The bill also expands education options for participants, allowing them to pursue high school diplomas and certificates alongside college degrees.
Public safety concerns were also highlighted, particularly in relation to House Bill 131, which focuses on strengthening background checks for caregivers. If passed, the legislation would introduce stricter screening measures to ensure that individuals with disqualifying criminal offenses are prevented from working with vulnerable populations, including seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Additionally, state officials discussed Senate Bill 88, which would create a Medicaid Trust Fund to help New Mexico prepare for potential federal funding shifts. Meanwhile, Senate Bills 1 and 3 propose a more sustainable, community-driven approach to rebuilding the state’s behavioral health system. These efforts reflect a broader strategy to strengthen long-term health care infrastructure while addressing immediate concerns.
Deputy Secretaries Castillo-Smith and Ochoa emphasized that these legislative efforts align with HCA’s core priorities: expanding access to health care, protecting vulnerable populations, and ensuring economic stability for public servants. With Medicaid projected to cover nearly half of New Mexico’s population by 2026, maintaining funding and support for critical programs remains a top priority for lawmakers and health care leaders.
In this episode, Larry Martinez talks with leaders from the New Mexico Health Care Authority about important changes in health care policy. Deputy Cabinet Secretaries Alexandria Castillo-Smith and Kyra Ochoa explain new Senate and House bills that could affect health care costs, Medicaid, and public assistance programs. They also discuss efforts to improve health care access, support long-term care, and adjust costs for state employees. Tune in for a clear breakdown of what these changes could mean for New Mexicans.
