March 1, 2018: Governor Susana Martinez signed SB 231, which will go into effect on July 1, 2018. New Mexico is the first state in the U.S. to pass a tax credit for hiring former/current foster youth. Learn more about the Foster Youth Employment Tax Credits Law.
February 14, 2018: After going through the House Taxation & Revenue Committee, SB 231 was passed on the House Floor. Governor Susana Martinez has 20 days to either sign or veto the bill.
February 13, 2018: After going through the Senate Corporations & Transportation and Senate Finance Committees, SB 231 was passed unanimously on the Senate Floor.
—
Once again, young people are leading change at the Legislative Session this year! In partnership with NMCAN, they are working to create incentives to encourage employers to hire current and former foster youth.
THE ISSUE
Young people aging out of foster care are ill-prepared to secure and succeed in their employment and career interests, and few employers are willing to hire these young people who may require additional resources and support.
In order to improve their transition to adulthood and help address New Mexico’s skilled employee gap, young people aging out of foster care must be allowed to work, and employers must be encouraged and supported in providing employment opportunities for foster youth.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Senate Bill 231 (Senator George K. Munoz) will address this concern by:
- Providing a monetary incentive to employers who hire current and former foster youth
- Giving foster youth increased access to jobs
Please feel free to reach out to Director of Policy and Advocacy Arika Sanchez with any questions. Stay tuned for further updates, and thanks for your help in letting young people know we want them to succeed in their careers!