New Mexico Upholds Drug-Exposed Newborn Policy

New Mexico’s Supreme Court has upheld a controversial new policy that places newborns exposed to drugs into state custody immediately, rejecting a last-minute legal challenge from the ACLU and lawmakers. The move, initiated by the governor in July, aims to protect infants after a series of tragic deaths linked to home-based care. Over 1,200 drug-exposed babies are born annually in the state, and under the new rule, they’re held in hospitals for treatment and safe placement—requiring a neglect petition before release. Critics warn it overburdens foster care and punishes parents, while state officials argue it saves lives. Since implementation, no child under this policy has died, and all 213 confirmed cases are in safe care. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1c7071aec6804a6d