In this issue
Central NM SHRM Newsletter: April 2026 
President's Report
April brings a renewed sense of energy and an opportunity to refocus as we move into the second quarter of the year. It is a great time to check progress on priorities and look ahead at what we want to strengthen in our workplaces and as HR professionals.
Central New Mexico SHRM continues to support our members through meaningful programming, professional development, and opportunities to connect with peers across our community. Whether you are attending a meeting, earning recertification credits, or engaging in discussion with fellow members, your involvement helps sustain a strong and collaborative HR network in our region.
Thank you to our volunteers, board members, speakers, and sponsors for your continued commitment, and to our members for staying engaged and connected. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events and continuing the important work we do together.
Upcoming Chapter Events
This is a FREE event open to all! Whether you're a current member or interested in learning more about SHRM, this is the perfect opportunity to network with HR leaders in your community.
👉 RSVP Here: https://lnkd.in/gbNUgjyV
✨ What's in store for you:
🎮 Fun networking game
🧀 Charcuterie from a premier local women-owned vendor
🍺 Two free beverage coupons (NON ALCOHOLIC DRINKS available)
🎁 Brand new swag
Don't miss this chance to connect, learn, and celebrate with fellow HR professionals and business owners!
We can't wait to see you there!
Welcome New & Renewing Members
You are connected with a vast network of HR professionals, exclusive events, and resources to help you advance your career by combining Central NM SHRM and SHRM national membership.
Legal Updates
SPRING CLEANING: TACKLING MESSY FORM I-9 FILES
Spring is a natural time for employers to clean house, and that should include employment eligibility records. Form I-9 compliance is critical given the current federal emphasis on immigration enforcement. Errors are common, penalties can be significant, and in the event of a federal audit, even technical mistakes can result in fines. A proactive internal Form I-9 audit is one of the most effective ways to identify and correct issues before they become enforcement problems.
Why Form I-9 Audits Matter
Unlike many other employment laws, Form I-9 compliance is largely a paperwork exercise. Federal enforcement agencies routinely issue penalties for incomplete forms, missing documentation, or failure to follow verification timelines. Importantly, liability does not require intentional wrongdoing. Even well-meaning employers can face exposure based on technical errors alone.
Common issues uncovered during audits include:
🌱 Missing I-9 forms for current or former employees
🌼 Incomplete Sections 1 or 2
🌿 Late completion of required verification steps
🌷 Failure to properly reverify work authorization
🌸 Retaining forms longer than required—or not long enough
The Basics of an Internal Form I-9 Audit
An internal audit does not need to be complicated, but it should be organized and consistent. Employers should:
📋 Identify all current employees and confirm that an I-9 exists for each
📄 Review each form for completeness, accuracy, and proper timing
🗂️ Separate active employee forms from terminated employee records
🗓️ Confirm that reverification requirements have been tracked and completed
Consistency is key. Audits should be applied uniformly across the workforce to avoid claims of selective enforcement or discrimination.
Correcting Errors the Right Way
One of the most important aspects of a Form I-9 audit is knowing how to fix mistakes. Corrections should be made carefully and transparently:
🧹Do not backdate forms or attempt to recreate missing documents
🧼 Make corrections directly on the form when possible, with initials and dates
🧽 If a section is incomplete, complete it as soon as possible and document the reason
🪣 If a Form I-9 is missing, complete a new form and note the timing of the correction
The goal is not to make the form look perfect—it is to create an accurate and honest record of compliance.
The Bottom Line
Form I-9 compliance is one of those areas where small administrative errors can carry outsized consequences. A proactive audit allows employers to identify and address issues early, reduce exposure, and demonstrate good-faith compliance if questions arise later. Spring is the perfect time to take a closer look.
Questions or Ideas for Future Articles?
If you have questions about Form I-9 compliance, internal audits, or other HR compliance issues—or if there are topics you’d like covered in future SHRM Central New Mexico newsletters—please feel free to contact me at (505) 797-4889 or [email protected].
State Conference!
The SHRM NM State Conference is back—and it’s designed to energize and elevate HR professionals across New Mexico. With dynamic keynote speakers, expert-led sessions, and valuable networking opportunities, this event brings fresh perspectives and practical insights to support your impact and growth.
Disrupt HR
DisruptHR Wanted!
DisruptHR Albuquerque is bringing its signature fast-paced format to the SHRM New Mexico State Conference—and we’re looking for bold voices ready to challenge how HR thinks and leads.
DisruptHR presentations are designed to deliver big ideas quickly: 5 minutes, 20 auto-advancing slides, and zero fluff. Speakers share innovative perspectives, practical insights, and thought-provoking ideas that spark conversation across the HR community.
This isn’t a traditional HR presentation. It’s an opportunity to bring energy, creativity, and fresh thinking to the stage while engaging fellow HR professionals from across New Mexico.
If you have an idea that pushes boundaries, challenges assumptions, or inspires change in the workplace, we want to hear from you.
Submit your interest through the QR code and join us in shaping the conversation at this year’s conference.
Certification Study Group
Central New Mexico SHRM is excited to continue supporting members pursuing their SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications through our Certification Study Group. This free program offers a supportive, collaborative environment for all members who are preparing for certification.
📅 Begins: July 8, 2026
🔁 Meets: Every Wednesday
⏰ Time: 5:30–7:30 p.m.
💲 Cost: FREE
📧 Questions: [email protected]
We look forward to another great year of learning, connection, and shared success as members work toward their certification goals.
Central NM SHRM's Mentorship Program
Unlock new opportunities and grow your HR career with Central NM SHRM's Mentorship Program! Whether you're an experienced professional looking to give back or an emerging HR leader seeking guidance, this program connects mentors and mentees to share insights, career pathways, and industry knowledge.
We are now accepting applications for both mentors and mentees!
CLICK to learn more about Central NM SHRM MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
We're Excited To Share!
CNM SHRM On-Demand Video Library (Archived Content)
Central New Mexico SHRM offers a library of previously recorded On-Demand videos available to members through the Member Resource Center. These sessions were created as part of earlier programming and remain accessible for members who want to revisit key topics or earn professional development credits on their own schedule.
Each video qualifies for 1 SHRM PDC, allowing members to continue learning while supporting the SHRM Foundation.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Our 2026 CNM SHRM learning series is being redesigned to deliver a more interactive experience, featuring live webinars, facilitated workshops, and real-time engagement. This new format will focus on practical application, peer discussion, and timely HR challenges to better support today’s workforce needs.
Stay tuned for details on upcoming sessions and registration information.
Questions? Contact the Workforce Readiness Team at [email protected].
Important Chapter Updates
Enhancing the Member Experience
To deliver a stronger learning and networking experience, Central New Mexico SHRM is moving away from hybrid events. Our monthly luncheons will be offered in person only, allowing speakers to fully engage the room and members to maximize connection and conversation.
Fully virtual programs will continue to be offered throughout the year as standalone events designed specifically for online engagement.
Member Resource Reminder
The Central NM SHRM Compliance Calendar is available exclusively to members and can be accessed through the member resources section.
Central NM SHRM Job Board
Did you know you can post job openings and use JobBlasts on the Central NM SHRM website?
Visit our page to look at the newest job posts and post your job opening today: https://centralnmshrm.jobing.com/
Central nm shrm job board
Grow With Us!
We're excited to have you join our Central NM SHRM community of HR professionals, where you'll find opportunities to grow, connect, and make an impact.
