SANTA FE – New Mexico parents who are behind on child support payments may be denied hunting or fishing licenses under the state’s Parental Responsibility Act.    

“Enjoying the outdoors through hunting and fishing is a New Mexico tradition that parents often share with their kids,” said Betina Gonzales McCracken, director of the Health Care Authority’s Child Support Services Division. “We want to help parents meet their child support commitment and get a recreational license.”    

Each month, the child support program provides a certified list of parents who are behind on child support to 63 state agencies that issue licenses. Parents who want to avoid delays in getting a hunting or fishing license can contact the Child Support Services Division by visiting YES.NM.GOV or calling 800-283-4465.   

Once a parent is up to date with child support payments, they will need to pay a $25 reinstatement fee, which can be paid through their Department of Wildlife customer account or by calling 1-888-248-6866.   

For unemployed or underemployed parents, the program offers STEPUp!, a collaborative effort with the Department of Workforce Solutions to help parents with job opportunities and training so they can meet their monthly obligation. In 2025, 57% of those referrals resulted in parents paying. 

Last year the program collected $119 million in child support, 99% of which goes directly to families rather than public assistance recoveries, and 65% is collected through wage withholdings from employed parents.  

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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.