The state’s Children, Youth & Families Department has been in a state of disarray for years, prompting the governor to form a council to help overhaul the troubled agency. However, a council member recently revealed to KRQE that the efforts have been futile thus far. Ann Pierret, in her investigation for KRQE, shed light on these concerns, which ultimately grabbed the attention of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
The most recent update from KRQE Investigates.
Although Pierret was unable to secure an interview with the governor, a member of the KRQE news team was able to speak with her. The governor was asked about the CYFD Policy Advisory Council meeting that took place following the airing of Pierret’s story. In response, the governor expressed her gratitude for the investigation.
According to the governor, the story has placed them in a significant position with the Advisory Council, prompting them to take action on policies. The council is currently working diligently on this matter.
After a member of the council voiced their concerns, Governor Lujan Grisham finally met with her CYFD Policy Advisory Council, which she had established a year prior. The council, comprised of child welfare experts, was formed following the veto of a bill supported by both parties that aimed to create an independent oversight body for the agency. The governor’s Executive Order outlined that her Policy Advisory Council would suggest policy changes to enhance the state agency.
According to her, a blueprint for all the desired changes is being implemented, and the teams are working together seamlessly. Adjustments to voluntary policies are being made to ensure that parents can effectively protect their families. “We’re figuring out some changes to some voluntary policies that we worry don’t put parents in the best possible position to safeguard their families.” A spokesperson for CYFD further explained that voluntary programs are offered to families to support their well-being. The aim is to encourage participation in these programs to aid in reunifying children who have been removed or prevent the removal of children from their families.
Barbara Yehl, a council member, expressed her disappointment with the lack of progress in their work, stating that they should have started working on it since May 2023. She shared that the policy council she is a part of consists of talented individuals with great ideas, but unfortunately, their suggestions have been ignored by those responsible for decision-making. Despite the council members’ efforts to share their ideas repeatedly, no action has been taken yet.
In an emotional interview with KRQE Investigates in April 2024, Yehl, a former foster Mom who runs the nonprofit Lighthouse Foster and Adoption Support in Roswell, expressed her frustrations. Yehl shared that they have provided suggestions in the past to help retain and recruit more foster families, as well as solutions to improve staff retention. However, it doesn’t seem like any of it is being heard. When asked by KRQE Investigative Reporter Ann Pierret if any of their suggestions are being listened to, Yehl responded with a resounding “It does not feel like it.”
After the interview was aired and Governor Lujan Grisham was confronted by KRQE Investigates regarding the concerns raised by Yehl and the lack of progress made by the council, she met with Yehl and the other council members. During the meeting, the governor congratulated them and expressed her gratitude towards the Advisory Council for working efficiently with the new secretary, who is successfully bringing about positive changes.
Check out the interview with the governor conducted in April 2024 below:
According to a statement from a CYFD Secretary spokesperson, the council is collaborating with an NMSU program to create a comprehensive plan for child services across the state. Additionally, council members will assist the state agency with new legislation in preparation for next year’s legislative session. Despite these efforts, the governor acknowledges that there is still much more work to be done for poverty and child well-being in the state. However, the administration remains committed to making these issues a top priority in the upcoming session. The governor expressed gratitude to a colleague for their support in these efforts.
The Policy Advisory Council has begun to make progress, but it remains uncertain how this will affect the future of CYFD as there have been no tangible results yet. Furthermore, the Council is still understaffed, having lost two members and started with only one. However, CYFD has stated its intention to fill the three vacant positions by the end of the week. KRQE Investigates will closely monitor the Council’s development and keep the public informed.
