Alamogordo, NM – February 3, 2026 – Exciting news for Otero and Lincoln Counties! A special presentation is coming up on February 20, 2026, focused on new state legislation that aims to boost behavioral health services in our area.
Taking place from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM in the Christus Health Yucca Conference Room, this event is sponsored by OCLULAC Council #8105 (Otero County League of United Latin American Citizens). It’s a great chance for residents and members of the Mescalero Apache Tribe to get involved.
Experts from the University of New Mexico’s Behavioral Health Technical Assistance Center (BHTAC) will lead the discussion. They will explain Senate Bill 3 (SB3), also known as the Behavioral Health Reform and Investment Act (BHRIA). This pivotal law, which gained broad support and was signed in February 2025, aims to transform behavioral health care across New Mexico.
SB3 encourages local communities to pinpoint their specific needs and secure funding for four-year plans tailored to tackle gaps in mental health and substance use treatment. This allows for a more personalized approach to care.
In addition, the UNM presenters will share insights from a recent E-SIM (Enhanced Sequential Intercept Model) Mapping and Prioritization Workshop. This engaging process brought together diverse voices from the community, including those from criminal justice, healthcare, and behavioral health sectors, to map out services and highlight priorities.
Some key highlights from these sessions will include the main behavioral health issues identified for Otero and Lincoln Counties, as well as the Mescalero Apache Tribe. This information will guide future funding requests and help shape local programs under the new framework established by SB3.
Amber Mayhall, Healthcare Services Director for Otero County, underscores the importance of community input. She and fellow leaders will be on hand to share updates and invite interested residents to join the stakeholder group for ongoing discussions.
This gathering is more than just a presentation. It represents a chance for everyone—local residents, service providers, and tribal members—to learn about available resources and improve access to behavioral health care in southern New Mexico.
For those looking for deeper insight, a recent report from the National Institute of Mental Health states that nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiences mental illness, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive support systems. Community initiatives like this presentation can play a crucial role in addressing these growing challenges.
Mark your calendar for February 20, and join in the effort to create a more responsive behavioral health system in our region! For more details, feel free to reach out at oterocountylulac@gmail.com.
