NMDOH’s $42.8M boost targets gaps in services and staffing

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health’s (NMDOH) has proposed a $243.9 million budget for fiscal year 2026 to address critical needs, rising costs and workforce challenges across the state.

The proposal represents a $42.8 million increase over the current $201.1 million budget and includes targeted funding to expand vital programs, sustain essential operations, and offer competitive salaries to attract and retain employees.

“Our proposed budget reflects our commitment to providing lifesaving care, addressing staffing challenges, and expanding behavioral health programs and nutrition programs for New Mexicans,” said NMDOH Interim Secretary Gina DeBlassie.

Key highlights of the budget proposal 

1. Expanding behavioral health treatment: 

• $4 million to operate a 28-bed drug and alcohol treatment facility in Las Vegas as part of NMDOH’s Behavioral Health Institute.  
• The facility will serve northeast New Mexico, a region with some of the highest rates of drug- and alcohol-related deaths in the state. 
• San Miguel County has secured $2.5 million to renovate the state-owned building, with patient admissions planned for April 2025. Additional funding will support operational readiness and sustainability. 

2. Sustaining vital operations: 

• Nearly $3 million to cover rising costs for utilities, food, travel, medical supplies, and other essential services that impact patient and resident care. 

3. Closing salary and funding gaps:

• An additional $7.7 million to address unfunded state-mandated salary increases for employees and for positions that are federally funded.  
• Nearly $5.2 million to implement new salary schedules and ensure NMDOH can offer competitive wages to attract and retain qualified staff. 

4. Combating food insecurity:

• $2.6 million to expand a WIC & Senior Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program, increasing access to fresh locally grown food for 30,000 New Mexicans—more than doubling the current reach of 13,000 participants. 

5. Additional program funding:

• $275,000 for Tribal engagement and outreach. 
• $200,000 for disease intervention. 
• $525,000 to maintain clinical services for diagnosing and treating syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases.

What’s next: 

NMDOH will present its budget proposal to the Legislative Finance Committee at 2:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9, in room 322 at the State Capitol.

The department is focused on addressing New Mexico’s most pressing health challenges, ensuring continuity of care, and building a workforce that can meet the state’s needs.

Media Contact

We would be happy to provide additional information about this press release. Simply contact Robert Nott at (Office) with your questions.

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NMDOH destina 42.8 millones para resolver deficiencias en servicios y personal