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Behavioral Health Oversight Proposed

A key state Senate Democrat is proposing the creation of an oversight board following the upheaval in the state's behavioral health system.

Senate Majority Whip Tim Keller says he wants a new board to approve contracts, vet decisions and ensure that a firm hired by the state is performing its duties.

The proposal comes after the New Mexico Human Services Department in June froze payments to 15 nonprofits that provide mental health and substance abuse services after an audit found what the agency said was a high rate of billing problems and possible mismanagement.

Some nonprofits are currently being transitioned to management by Arizona companies.

The move has drawn fire from state lawmakers and has sparked anger from advocates.

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Information from: Albuquerque Journal, http://www.abqjournal.com

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.