ALTSD Cabinet Secretary Emily Kaltenbach
ALTSD News:
SANTA FE – The Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) is inviting the public to weigh in on the rule for the new Kinship Caregiver Pilot Program.
Created through House Bill 252 during the 2025 Legislative session, the Kinship Caregiver Pilot Program is designed to assist those who are raising children outside of the traditional foster care system by helping them access services, legal resources, and financial support.
“Whether it’s grandparents stepping in, an aunt or uncle opening their home, or an older sibling keeping the family together, kinship caregivers are the quiet heroes of our communities,” ALTSD Cabinet Secretary Emily Kaltenbach said. “This program is about honoring their love and commitment, and we want to ensure it truly reflects the needs of the families it is designed to support.”
The new rule outlines the administration and structure of the program, including eligibility criteria, how counties will be selected for participation, and details the role of the navigators who will guide families through available resources. Up to 50 families will be served in each of the five to seven counties selected for this pilot.
How to comment:
The full text of the proposed rule is available at aging.nm.gov/kcs-rulemaking. Copies may also be requested by contacting Craig Hay at craig.hay@altsd.nm.gov.
Written comments on the rule must be submitted by 5 p.m. Thursday, July 24.
Submit comments in one of the following ways:
- By mail – Aging and Long-Term Services Department
Office of the Secretary
Attn: Kinship Caregiver Support Pilot Program Comments
2550 Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe, N.M. 87505 - By email – craig.hay@altsd.nm.gov
Subject line: Proposed Rule 9.2.25 NMAC
Include the commenter’s full name and contact information.
The open comment period is available through July 24. A public hearing will be held at 9 a.m. Friday, July 25, in the Willie Ortiz Auditorium at 2600 Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe, N.M. 87505.
About ALTSD:
The New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) was established in 2004 to provide resources, connection and advocacy for seniors and adults with disabilities. The department oversees the state’s Area Agencies on Aging to elevate the quality of care at senior centers, offers advocacy through the Long-Term Care Ombudsman volunteer program, and provides intervention through the agency’s national award-winning Adult Protective Services. Additionally, ALTSD houses the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Center, which offers options counseling, education, and connection to resources. For more information about ALTSD, visit aging.nm.gov or follow Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram@NewMexicoAging.