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Santa Fe Today
By the People, for the People
New Mexico Lawmakers Propose Virtual Learning Regulations
Bill would require attendance tracking and academic performance reporting for online students
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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New Mexico lawmakers have introduced a bill, HB 253, that would establish new rules for virtual learning programs in the state. The bill aims to improve oversight and accountability by requiring distance learning programs to follow attendance laws, submit reports to the Public Education Department, and eliminate district residency requirements for online students.
Why it matters
The proposed regulations are intended to ensure virtual learning students are actually engaged and progressing academically, as lawmakers and education officials seek to maintain high-quality education standards across all learning modalities. The bill is seen as a critical step in supporting the growing number of students who rely on remote and online options.
The details
The 'Public Education Changes' bill would require distance learning programs to follow attendance laws and submit regular reports to the New Mexico Public Education Department to assess student outcomes. It would also eliminate the requirement that online students must live in a specific school district or adjacent district. If programs do not comply, the bill allows the PED to withhold funding for distance learning students.
- The bill was introduced in the New Mexico legislature in February 2026.
- The bill passed its first committee vote on Monday with an 8-4 vote.
- The bill is expected to be heard again in committee on Thursday.
The players
HB 253
A Democratic bill introduced in the New Mexico legislature that proposes new regulations for virtual learning programs in the state.
New Mexico Public Education Department
The state agency that would be responsible for overseeing compliance with the new virtual learning requirements if the bill is passed.
Representative Joy Garratt
A Democratic state representative and one of the sponsors of the 'Public Education Changes' bill.
Katrina Mohamed
A spokesperson for a virtual school program in New Mexico who expressed support for the latest version of the bill.
What they’re saying
“The current version, it keeps our program whole. It allows all of our students to be able to continue with the program, and so we're very happy for that.”
— Katrina Mohamed, Spokesperson, virtual school program (KRQE)
“It is a great choice for many, many families and their children. Some have medically fragile children, some kids feel unsafe because they've been bullied, some live in rural areas.”
— Representative Joy Garratt, State Representative (KRQE)
“It'll help us understand what is working, what is not working. We want to make sure that there's high education quality in everything.”
— Representative Joy Garratt, State Representative (KRQE)
What’s next
The bill is expected to be heard again in committee on Thursday and, if passed, would then move to a full vote in the New Mexico legislature.
The takeaway
This bill represents an effort by New Mexico lawmakers to improve oversight and accountability for virtual learning programs, ensuring students are engaged and progressing academically, while also expanding access to online education options for families across the state.
