Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham visited the Roundhouse this week and greeted a crowd of senior Recent Mexicans, using the occasion to recap the state’s recent senior‑focused policies and to pledge continued advocacy.
Key Senior Programs Launched Since 2020
- 2020 – New Mexico Grown was introduced to connect seniors with healthy, locally produced food; today 42,869 seniors are enrolled.
- 2022 – The state eliminated the social‑security tax, saving more than 134,500 senior households $629 each year.
- 2024 – New MexiCare began offering up to $14,000 annually to help seniors age in place with dignity; 492 New Mexicans have enrolled so far.
- 2024 – The Kinship Caregiver Pilot Program was launched in Rio Arriba and San Juan counties, awarding 62 families a $500 monthly stipend and assistance navigating services.
- Ongoing – Funding was secured for 14 state adult‑day‑care centers, including four tribal centers, giving seniors safe places to connect and providing families peace of mind.
Looking Ahead
The governor signaled that the current portfolio of senior services is not final. Analysts expect that the success of the Kinship Caregiver Pilot could lead to a broader rollout across additional counties. Additional funding for adult‑day‑care centers may be considered to expand tribal participation. Continued advocacy could also explore further tax relief measures or increased funding for New MexiCare enrollment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is New Mexico Grown?
New Mexico Grown is a program launched in 2020 that provides seniors with access to healthy, locally produced food. As of the latest count, 42,869 seniors are enrolled.
How much money have senior households saved from the eliminated social‑security tax?
The elimination of the social‑security tax in 2022 saves more than 134,500 senior households $629 each year.
What does the Kinship Caregiver Pilot Program provide?
The pilot program, started this year in Rio Arriba and San Juan counties, gives 62 families a $500 monthly stipend and helps them navigate services, supporting grandparents who are raising grandchildren.
What impact might these senior‑focused initiatives have on New Mexico’s aging communities in the years to come?
