A key Democratic state senator is asking Republican Gov. Susana Martinez's administration for answers as a mental health provider prepares to pull out of southern New Mexico.
Senate President Pro Tem Mary Kay Papen says she's concerned about the thousands of people who currently receive care from Arizona-based La Frontera. The provider is set to stop services June 1.
Papen outlined her questions about continuing patient care in a four-page letter made public Monday. She sent the letter to three of Martinez's cabinet members.
Papen says an independent assessment of La Frontera's performance confirms that the needs of those with serious mental illnesses haven't been met over the last 21 months.
The state Human Services Department has said it's working to help clients find services.
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