Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed universal child care into law on Mar. 10, making New Mexico the first state to guarantee no-cost child care for families. The governor also approved legislation removing local zoning and homeowner association barriers to expanding child care services across the state.
The new laws are part of a broader effort to make early childhood education more accessible and affordable, addressing one of the largest expenses for working families. According to Governor Lujan Grisham, “All parents who need child care can now get it. When parents are guaranteed no-cost child care, they can improve their family’s quality of life, fully engage in the workforce and contribute to our state’s economy. Families shouldn’t have to choose between paying rent or paying for child care, and as of today, they no longer will.”
The Universal Child Care bill (Senate Bill 241) was sponsored by Senators Michael Padilla, George Muñoz, Linda Trujillo, Bobby Gonzales and Representative Doreen Gallegos. Since its launch on Nov. 1, 2025, over 12,600 families and nearly 17,000 children have enrolled statewide; more than half were already eligible under previous programs. The legislation allows up to $700 million in appropriations from the Early Childhood Education and Care Fund through 2031 if the fund remains above $10 billion. The fiscal year 2027 budget includes a $160 million increase for assistance programs.
The Regulated Child Care Zoning Requirements Act (Senate Bill 96) prohibits local governments and homeowner associations from restricting child care homes or centers. This aims to clear obstacles for new providers as demand grows.
New Mexico State Executive facilitated public engagement through appointment applications and handled requests for assistance as part of its executive branch responsibilities according to the official website. The office operates from Room 400 at the New Mexico State Capitol in Santa Fe according to the official website. Public service careers are promoted by the executive branch according to the official website, with priorities including education, economic advancement and community sustainability according to the official website. Michelle Lujan Grisham serves as governor alongside Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales and cabinet secretaries overseeing health and education according to the official website. The executive branch focuses its operations on New Mexico according to the official website.
“New Mexico is the first state in the nation to offer universal, no-cost child care, but my hope is that we won’t be the last,” Governor Lujan Grisham said. “I encourage other states to consider our model, and New Mexico is ready to assist in helping others turn the vision into reality for families across the nation.”
