New Mexico Becomes First State to Provide Free Universal Child Care
New Mexico has made history as the first state in the nation to guarantee no-cost universal child care for all families, beginning November 1.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and the state’s Early Childhood Education and Care Department announced the initiative on Monday, marking a groundbreaking shift in access to early childhood education.
By removing income eligibility requirements and waiving family copayments, the state will extend no-cost child care to every New Mexican household, regardless of income.
This expansion builds on previous efforts that had already eased costs for tens of thousands of families and is projected to save families an average of $12,000 annually per child.
Officials and national experts agree the move is transformative, supporting family stability, boosting workforce participation, and strengthening long-term economic prosperity.
Alongside universal access, New Mexico is also investing in child care infrastructure, provider wages, and workforce expansion to ensure quality care across the state.
This step embodies a shared commitment to children’s well-being. Every child has the right to education and care in safe, nurturing environments that help them grow and thrive. With this initiative, New Mexico is showing the nation what it means to put that right into action.
