In a move to strengthen support for students with disabilities, the New Mexico Legislature passed Senate Bill 64 (SB 64). The landmark legislation aims to improve and modernize special education services across the state.
SB 64 establishes the Special Education Act within the New Mexico Public School Code. It also codifies the Office of Special Education (OSE) within the New Mexico Public Education Department.
The bill creates the role of deputy secretary for special education, who will report directly to the public education secretary. The deputy secretary will spearhead efforts to help ensure students with disabilities receive high-quality, consistent services. This measure codifies the OSE in statute, securing the office’s permanence and continuity after operating under executive order since 2023.
Public Education Secretary Mariana Padilla said SB 64 represents a milestone to guarantee high-quality, consistent support for students with disabilities. “By strengthening statewide leadership and modernizing our special education systems, we are building a more equitable and responsive framework for students, families, and educators across New Mexico,” she said in a news release.
What are the key provisions of SB 64?
SB 64 establishes a clear statewide framework for special education services and support. It aims to improve outcomes for students with disabilities from early childhood through college and career.
Additionally, the bill creates the Office of Special Education and a deputy secretary for special education. This ensures equity, compliance, stable statewide services, and enforcement of the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and state special education law.
The measure also requires the OSE to develop and maintain a uniform online system for individualized education programs. This system, used by all school districts and charter schools, will improve consistency, compliance, progress monitoring, and transparency.
Further, SB 64 aligns state law with federal requirements and ensures stability and consistency of services for students with disabilities.
The bill also updates statutory definitions and incorporates best practices to enhance support for students exhibiting characteristics such as dyslexia. It aims to streamline special education law within the broader New Mexico Public School Code.
SB 64 is a major step in strengthening educational equity and outcomes for New Mexico’s students with disabilities. It will take effect on July 1, 2026.