New Mexico pledges support for Native adoptions

SANTA FE, N.M. — In her first prepared speech Tuesday the new leader of New Mexico's child protection department pledges to restore the agency's credibility following a series of scandals under her predecessor.

New Mexico Children Youth and Family Department Secretary Barbara J. Vigil also promised to enshrine federal law prioritizing tribal members in adoptions of Native American children into the practices of her department and state law.

In an online speech to some 300 Native American child welfare advocates, the former New Mexico Supreme Court justice said she would increase transparency and accountability at the agency, which handles child abuse and neglect cases, as well as foster care and adoptions.

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