SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION 11

55th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2021

INTRODUCED BY

Linda M. Lopez

 

 

 

 

 

A JOINT RESOLUTION

PROPOSING AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE 6 OF THE CONSTITUTION OF NEW MEXICO TO ADD A NEW SECTION TO ESTABLISH IN THE JUDICIAL DEPARTMENT AN OFFICE OF FAMILY REPRESENTATION AND ADVOCACY.

 

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

     SECTION 1. It is proposed to amend Article 6 of the constitution of New Mexico by adding a new section to read:

          "A. The "office of family representation and advocacy" is established as an independent state agency for the purpose of providing representation to indigent persons as provided by law, with standards of representation as also provided by law. The director is the administrative head of the office of family representation and advocacy. The term and qualifications of the director shall be provided by law.

          B. The "family representation and advocacy oversight commission" is established. The commission shall appoint the director. The commission shall exercise independent oversight of the office of family representation and advocacy. The commission shall not interfere with the discretion, professional judgment or advocacy of the office of family representation and advocacy, a contractor with the office or an assigned counsel in an individual case. Terms, qualifications and membership of the commission shall be established by law."

     SECTION 2. The amendment proposed by this resolution shall be submitted to the people for their approval or rejection at the next general election or at any special election prior to that date that may be called for that purpose.

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