Governor Bans Kids from Sleeping in Government Offices Under CYFD Care

New Mexico — 

An e-mail from Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s office indicates she has signed an executive order Monday banning the practice of children in state custody sleeping overnight in government offices.

This came to light after media and child advocate groups found out about CYFD state custody children were sleeping overnight in offices.

Starting March 1, no child may sleep in a Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) office under any circumstances, and the agency must ensure all youth are placed in appropriate care settings.

“Children who have experienced trauma deserve safety, stability and dignity — not sleeping in offices,” said in an e-mail release, Governor Lujan Grisham. “This executive order makes clear that New Mexico will not accept anything less than appropriate care for children in our custody.”

The e-mail says, children slept in state offices after emergency removals, when agencies couldn’t place sibling groups together, when treatment facilities discharged them without available placements, or when older youth refused other options. Placement shortages persisted despite efforts to recruit foster families and community partners.

Acting Secretary Valerie Sandoval has expanded provider partnerships and established transitional programs. CYFD stopped new office stays Jan. 16 and is relocating remaining youth into appropriate placements, with full elimination expected by March.

“This executive order reflects the standard our children deserve and the responsibility we carry as a department,” said Valerie Sandoval, Acting Secretary of the Children, Youth and Families Department. “We have taken decisive steps to stop office stays, and we will continue working with providers, caregivers, and partners across state government to ensure every child in our care has a safe and appropriate place to stay.”

“This is about accountability and urgency,” said Lujan Grisham. “The work is already underway, and this order ensures it continues — not just now, but into the future.”

The executive order directs CYFD to expand collaboration with providers, other agencies, and community organizations to strengthen placement capacity and prevent future office stays.

We asked Governor spokeswoman Lauren Dodd Throp how people can report things to CYFF and she said those with concerns about CYFD can contact the governor’s office or CYFD’s Office of Advocacy at cyfd.advocacy@cyfd.nm.gov or (505) 681-2486.