Committee approves measure letting counties use indigent care funds for premiums and out‑of‑pocket health costs

The Senate committee voted to report a bill as amended that expands the permissible uses of county health care assistance funds so counties may optionally pay premiums, copayments and deductibles for individuals who meet locally determined indigency criteria.

Sponsor Senator Joe Steinborn told the committee the amendment restores an original intent to permit counties discretion to cover non‑medical health costs and monthly premiums, filling gaps for people who fall above Medicaid eligibility but still face unaffordable health bills. Testimony from Dona Ana County representatives and the New Mexico Center on Law and Poverty described existing county programs that already provide assistance and said statutory clarity would enable counties to better leverage local funds.

Committee members questioned whether expanding allowable uses would “dilute” funds for hospital indigent payments. Supporters said county programs set local eligibility criteria and that the statutory expansion is optional; where counties already use funds to cover a broader set of services, the change would simply clarify authority. Members also noted upcoming statewide affordability programs that will assist people above Medicaid thresholds.

Senator Bergman moved the committee to report the bill do pass; senators recorded an 8–2 vote in favor. The committee’s action advances the measure to the Senate floor for further consideration and appropriations as needed.