2021 New Mexico Statutes
Chapter 22 - Public Schools
Article 1 - General Provisions
Section 22-1-14 - Dental examination requirement; opting out; education; outreach.

A. As of July 1, 2021, a student shall not enroll in school unless the student has provided, in accordance with protocols established by the department:

(1) satisfactory evidence of having undergone a dental examination that meets standards established pursuant to department rules; or

(2) a form, signed by the student's parent or guardian, that states that the parent understands the risks associated when a student does not undergo a dental examination prior to school enrollment and that the parent or guardian nevertheless opts not to obtain a dental examination for the student.

B. Department rules shall specify that students shall obtain dental examinations required pursuant to Subsection A of this section at their own expense or at the expense of any dental health coverage they have.

C. By July 1, 2020, the secretary shall:

(1) adopt and promulgate rules to prescribe the requirements for dental examination pursuant to this section; and

(2) provide extensive education statewide for parents and guardians explaining the requirements for dental examination and providing information regarding where they may receive referrals to dental health care professionals statewide who are authorized to perform dental examinations in accordance with those rules.

D. Beginning July 1, 2022, the department shall collect data regarding student compliance with the provisions of Subsection A of this section and make an annual written report of that data to the legislative finance committee and the legislative health and human services committee.

History: Laws 2019, ch. 107, § 14.

Effective dates. — Laws 2019, ch. 107 contained no effective date provision, but, pursuant to N.M. Const., art. IV, § 23, was effective June 14, 2019, 90 days after the adjournment of the legislature.