NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

Only the most recent FIR version, excluding attachments, is available on the Intranet. Previously issued FIRs and attachments may be obtained from the LFC office in Suite 101 of the State Capitol Building North.

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates Senate Bill 42 Relates to Senate Bill 98

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

LFC Files

Commission on Higher Education (CHE)

CHE Files - Special Funding Requests Submitted by UNM

Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 364 appropriates $198.0 from the general fund to the Board of Regents of the University of New Mexico (UNM) to support a program for special evaluations of children and adolescents who may have been sexually abused or assaulted.

Significant Issues

This appropriation would allow UNM to perform forensic medical evaluations that are sensitive and tailored for children suspected of being victims of sexual abuse or sexual assault.

According to the Children, Youth, and Families Department, UNM has a Sexual Abuse Response Team (SART) that conducts forensic medical evaluations in cases for sexual abuse or sexual assault. This appropriation would increase the funding for these services.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $198.0 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of FY02 shall revert to the general fund.

OTHER SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES

The following is provided for information only. It is not intended as a commentary on the merits of this program/subject:

The UNM Board of Regents and the Commission on Higher Education did not approve this funding request.

LG/prr:lrs:ar