New Mexico § 61-2-16 - Freedom of choice
Full text of New Mexico New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 61-2-16 — Freedom of choice, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 61-2-16. Freedom of choice
A. In expending public money for any purpose involving the care of vision, any state
board, commission or department created or existing by statute, including public schools
or other state or municipal agencies or any of their employees, who, in the performance
of their duties, are responsible for such expenditures shall not, directly or indirectly,
refer the name or address of any particular ocular practitioner or system of practice
to any person eligible for a vision examination or the correction of any visual or
muscular anomaly, except in emergency situations. B. Every policy of insurance or medical or health service contract providing for payment
or reimbursement for any eye care service shall be construed to include payment or
reimbursement for professional services rendered by a licensed optometrist, and no
insurance policy or medical or health service contract shall discriminate between
ocular practitioners rendering similar services.
Source: official New Mexico text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About New Mexico § 61-2-16
What does New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 61-2-16 cover?
Section 61-2-16 ("Freedom of choice") is part of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated, the codified statutory law of New Mexico. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite New Mexico § 61-2-16?
A common citation format is "New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 61-2-16" (New Mexico). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of New Mexico law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Mexico official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Mexico attorney.
How does New Mexico § 61-2-16 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Mexico can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New Mexico.