SANTA FE – New Mexico parents who are behind on child support payments could be denied hunting or fishing licenses under the state’s Parental Responsibility Act.

“We want parents to enjoy the hunting and fishing adventures New Mexico has to offer,” said Betina Gonzales McCracken, director of HCA’s Child Support Services Division. “If you are behind in paying child support, reach out to us. We can help you get caught up or assist you with finding a job to start meeting your commitment and get your license.”

Each month, the child support program provides a certified list of parents who are behind on child support to 63 state agencies that issue licenses. Parents who want to avoid delays in getting a hunting or fishing license can contact the Child Support Services Division by visiting YES.NM.GOV or calling 800-283-4465.

Once a parent is up to date with child support payments, they will need to pay a $25 reinstatement fee, which can be paid through their Game and Fish customer account or by calling 1-888-248-6866.

“Spending time outdoors can be a great way to connect with your children,” said Michael Sloane, director of the Department of Game and Fish. “Don’t miss out on a potential once-in-a-lifetime hunting or fishing trip because you aren’t up to date on your child support.”

For unemployed parents, the program offers STEPUp!, a collaborative effort with the Department of Workforce Solutions to help parents with job opportunities and training so they can make consistent monthly payments. In 2024, the program helped 710 parents find jobs and get back on track with their child support payments.

This year, the child support program is celebrating 50 years of serving families across the state. The program currently has 50,000 active child support cases and collected $119.2 million in 2024, with 98 percent of funds going directly to families.

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