Statement from Save the Children Action Network on New Mexico’s Emergency Budget Passage

SANTA FE, N.M. (October 7, 2025) — Save the Children Action Network (SCAN) applauds Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and New Mexico legislators for approving an emergency relief package that strengthens protections for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and invests in the well-being of children and families across the state. 

The package includes more than $25 million for SNAP benefits, food banks and school-based food programs – a critical lifeline for families facing rising food insecurity amid federal funding cuts. This investment will help to ensure that children have access to the nutritious meals they need to learn, grow and thrive. 

“Today’s action shows that New Mexico is stepping up for its children. The money directed toward food assistance will help thousands of families put healthy meals on the table,” said Nina Quintana, SCAN’s New Mexico State Manager. “The work doesn’t stop here. Families still face uncertainty as federal support shrinks, and we must keep fighting to protect and strengthen programs like SNAP that are essential to kids’ health and futures.” 

New Mexico’s emergency relief package includes: 

• $4.6 million to maintain minimum levels of SNAP benefits for elders and people with disabilities, and $12 million to maintain minimum levels of SNAP benefits for lawful immigrants. 

• $1.5 million to help enrollees meet expanded work requirements for SNAP and Medicaid. 

• $8 million to support local food banks. 

• $10 million for the Health Care Authority to increase IT capacity to prepare for changes to eligibility requirements for Medicaid and SNAP. 

“As we thank our leaders for this important action, we call on advocates, families and policymakers to stay engaged,” Quintana said. “New Mexico’s kids depend on our continued commitment to defending and expanding child nutrition and family support programs at both the state and federal levels.” 

About Save the Children Action Network (SCAN):
Save the Children Action Network is committed to ensuring every child has a strong start in life. SCAN mobilizes grassroots advocates, supports bipartisan leaders, and advances policies that expand access to early learning and end child hunger in the U.S. and around the world.

###