State highlights free job help as new Medicaid work rules approach

America’s Job Center New Mexico offers job search, training,
and career help at no cost.

Source: N.M. Department of Workforce Solutions

ALBUQUERQUE – As new federal Medicaid work requirements threaten to squeeze household budgets in 2027, the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions is highlighting free job-search and training services available to help Medicaid members keep their coverage.

Through America’s Job Center New Mexico, job seekers can receive personalized assistance finding employment, exploring career options, building skills, and connecting with employers, all at no cost. 

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“Looking for work can feel overwhelming, but New Mexicans don’t have to navigate that process alone,” said Sarita Nair, Cabinet Secretary for the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions. “Whether someone is entering the workforce, changing careers, returning to work, or looking for additional training, we want them to know there is a place they can turn to for help at any America’s Job Center New Mexico location.” 

The state is doubling down on job-seeking services as more than 230,000 Medicaid members received notices from the New Mexico Health Care Authority about new work or activity rules to take effect in 2027. Starting Jan. 1, certain adults aged 19-64 enrolled in Medicaid will be subject to new federal requirements that will stipulate 80 hours per month of qualifying work or other activities, which include education, training, and community service. 

“HCA is here to help our customers understand what they need to do to keep their Medicaid benefits, and Workforce Solutions is ready to help people find jobs, training, and other opportunities,” said Kari Armijo, Cabinet Secretary for the New Mexico Health Care Authority.

Medicaid members should work with the Health Care Authority to see if they will be subject to the new work or activity rules that will be effective as of January 1^st. While the New Mexico Health Care Authority is responsible for administering Medicaid and answering questions about eligibility and the new requirements, NMDWS can help New Mexicans who are seeking employment or workforce opportunities. 

America’s Job Center New Mexico provides services designed to meet job seekers where they are, including:

• Help searching and applying for jobs
• Resume development and interview preparation
• Career planning and exploration
• Skills assessments
• Referrals to education and training opportunities, including tuition-free college and non-credit bearing industry recognized credentials
• Assistance identifying career pathways and in-demand occupations
• Connections with employers and job openings
• Support for eligible individuals through Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs.

New Mexicans can access workforce services in person through any of the 24 America’s Job Center New Mexico locationsor explore employment and career resources online through https://www.jobs.dws.nm.gov.