SANTA FE — New Mexico has approved $24.4 million in early access funding to expand behavioral health services statewide, allowing communities to address gaps in care while longer-term regional plans are developed.
The funding, to be administered by the New Mexico Health Care Authority, totals $24,473,462 and will support immediate investments to improve access to behavioral health across the regions.
“This funding puts decisions closer to the communities delivering care,” said Kari Armijo, cabinet secretary at New Mexico Health Care Authority. “It gives communities the ability to act now, expand services earlier and faster, and meet people where they are.”
The funding was authorized under Senate Bill 3, which passed with bipartisan support during the 2025 legislative session. It allows the 13 designated behavioral health regions to begin implementing services while comprehensive multi-year regional behavioral health plans are still in development.
Funding supports four core access shortages: residential treatment, crisis services, medication-assisted treatment for justice-involved individuals, and prenatal and perinatal substance use disorder programs. Working with community organizations, tribal partners, health care providers, and other key stakeholders, behavioral health regions developed projects and initiatives to expand behavioral health care for youth, adults and families.
Applications for funding were open from Nov. 4, 2025 through Dec.19, 2025. The Health Care Authority expects to announce awards the week of Jan. 26.
“This money will help communities accelerate efforts to improve care and support New Mexicans by reducing barriers,” said Nick Boukas, director at the Behavioral Health Services Division. “By supporting communities and the providers that work in them, we will see better outcomes across our state.”
For more information about the Behavioral Health Reform and Investment Act and Early Access Funding, please visit hca.nm.gov/about_the_department/behavioral-health-reform
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About the New Mexico Health Care Authority
The New Mexico Health Care Authority connects New Mexicans to the care and support they need to live healthy, full lives. The agency administers Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), cash assistance, child support services, and behavioral health care across the state. HCA also oversees the State Health Benefits program for state employees and manages the Health Care Affordability Fund to help make coverage more affordable for working families. The agency licenses health care facilities, investigates complaints, and ensures providers deliver safe, high-quality care. In addition, HCA supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of home and community-based programs that protect health, safety, and human rights.