In 2022, the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions used a tiered evidence framework from the AmeriCorps Evidence Exchange to define and prioritize evidence of effectiveness in the allocation of funds through its AmeriCorps grant program. Criteria from the Evidence Exchange assigned preference to evidence-based interventions assessed as ‘Moderate’ or ‘Strong’. Applicants were encouraged to consider interventions through the AmeriCorps Mandatory Supplemental Guidance that further defined evidence tiers. Full evidence-based regulations were also highlighted online at www.ecfr.gov.

During FY23 New Mexico’s Corrections Department moved towards requiring evidence-based programming in all contracts for community Behavioral Health and Transitional Housing. The RFP includes the following language: “Provider shall develop services based on evidence-based practices that are proven to be successful through research methodology and have produced consistent positive patterns of results, such as group treatment for substance abuse, Motivational Interviewing Therapy and Stages of Change Theory. The following criteria shall be utilized for the implementation of Evidence Based Practices (EBP):

1. At least one randomized clinical trial that has shown this practice to be effective;
2. The practice either targets behaviors or shows significant effect on behaviors that are generally accepted outcomes; and
3. The practice should be specific to the treatment organizations population, including racial, linguistic, geographical and cultural factors – including characteristics specific to the offender population.”