SENATE BILL 500

47th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - second session, 2006

INTRODUCED BY

Ben D. Altamirano

AN ACT

RELATING TO GUARDIANSHIP; CREATING A PROGRAM TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE AND TRAINING WITH RESPECT TO ALTERNATIVES TO GUARDIANSHIP FOR THE CARE OF DISABLED PERSONS; MAKING AN APPROPRIATION; DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO:

     Section 1. GUARDIANSHIP ALTERNATIVES PROGRAM CREATED.--The "guardianship alternatives program" is created within the children, youth and families department to provide:

          A. assistance in the establishment of alternatives to guardianship for the care of disabled persons, including the establishment of boards of family members and friends responsible for the care of disabled persons; and

          B. training and assistance to communities regarding alternatives to guardianship for the care of disabled persons.

     Section 2. APPROPRIATION.--Two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) is appropriated from the general fund to the children, youth and families department for expenditure in fiscal year 2006 and subsequent fiscal years for the guardianship alternatives program. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of a fiscal year shall not revert to the general fund.

     Section 3. EMERGENCY.--It is necessary for the public peace, health and safety that this act take effect immediately.

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