New Mexico has become the first state in the nation to provide free child care to all families, regardless of income. The program, which launched on November 1, is expected to save families roughly $12,000 per child each year.
“Child care is essential to family stability, workforce participation, and New Mexico’s future prosperity,” said Governor Michelle 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.”
The state has long struggled with child well-being, consistently ranking near the bottom nationally. The 2025 Kids Count report found that 60% of children ages 3 and 4 in New Mexico are not enrolled in school. State officials and child advocacy experts believe the new program could help reverse that trend.
“New Mexico is creating the conditions for better outcomes in health, learning, and well-being,” said Neal Halfon, professor of pediatrics, public health, and public policy at UCLA.
In addition to offering no-cost child care, New Mexico is taking steps to expand access. Efforts include recruiting more licensed and registered home child care providers and establishing a $12.7 million low-interest loan fund to construct, expand, and renovate child care facilities across the state.
