By KRWG News
New Mexico – Human Services Secretary Pam Hyde has been selected for a job in President Barack Obama's administration.
The White House announced Friday that Obama will nominate Hyde as administrator of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in the Health and Human Services Department.
Hyde runs a state agency that administers Medicaid as well as social services such as food stamps. She has served in the job since 2003, when Gov. Bill Richardson took office.
Richardson praised Hyde, calling her a tremendous asset to New Mexico. Hyde will continue in her state post until confirmed by the U.S. Senate.
The governor's office says Katie Falls, the department's deputy secretary, will take over after Hyde leaves.
Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.