New Mexico will become the first state in the United States to provide universal, no-cost child care to all residents starting November 1. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department announced the initiative on Monday.
The new policy removes income eligibility requirements from the state’s child care assistance program and continues waiving family copayments. As a result, every family in New Mexico will be eligible for free child care services regardless of income level.
“Child care is essential to family stability, workforce participation, and New Mexico’s future prosperity,” said Lujan Grisham. “By investing in universal child care, we are giving families financial relief, supporting our economy, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow and thrive.”
This step fulfills a commitment made by both the governor and state lawmakers when they established the Early Childhood Education and Care Department in 2019. Since then, access to no-cost child care had already been expanded for families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level.
With this latest expansion, families across New Mexico can expect an average annual savings of $12,000 per child on child care costs.
Neal Halfon, professor at UCLA and director of the Center for Healthier Children, Families, and Communities, commented on the move: “New Mexico is creating the conditions for better outcomes in health, learning, and well-being. Its approach is rooted in data, driven by communities, and becoming a model for the nation.”
Michelle Kang, president and CEO of the National Association of the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), added: “By prioritizing public investments in early childhood educators, families, and children, New Mexico continues to lead the way in building a sustainable, affordable, and quality child care and early learning system that helps its communities and economy thrive. Achieving universal child care will make a huge difference for the state’s children, families, businesses, and educators—and for all of us, by showing that it can be done.”
According to state officials cited in Monday’s announcement, families who have received assistance report greater financial stability as well as more time with their children. The policy also allows parents more choice regarding higher-quality care settings.
To support increased demand for services under universal access:
– A $12.7 million low-interest loan fund has been set up to build or improve facilities.
– An additional $20 million has been requested in next year’s budget.
– Efforts are being targeted toward expanding infant/toddler slots as well as serving low-income families or those with special needs.
– Partnerships are being formed with employers and school districts.
– A campaign is underway to recruit licensed home providers statewide.
Reimbursement rates paid to providers will increase so they reflect actual costs. Programs that pay entry-level staff at least $18 per hour while offering extended hours will qualify for incentive rates. The state estimates about 5,000 additional early childhood professionals are needed statewide.
“Early childhood care and education is a public good,” said ECECD Secretary Elizabeth Groginsky. “By providing universal access and improving pay for our early childhood workforce, we are easing financial pressure on families, strengthening our economy, and helping every child learn in safe, nurturing environments. This is the kind of investment that builds equity today and prosperity for the future.”
More information about accessing these benefits can be found at ECECD Universal Child Care Resources Page.
