New Mexico Leads the Nation with Universal, No-Cost Child Care

Beginning November 1, 2025, New Mexico will make history as the first state in the nation to

offer no-cost universal child care to all families—regardless of income. This bold move marks a transformational step toward equity, opportunity, and long-term prosperity for children and families statewide.

A Model for the Nation

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care

Department (ECECD) announced the change as part of the state’s continuing effort to build a sustainable early learning system that works for everyone.

By removing income eligibility requirements and continuing the waiver of family copayments, every family in New Mexico will now have access to affordable, high-quality child care—saving families an average of $12,000 per child each year.

“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.”

Investing in Families, Educators, and Communities

Universal child care is more than a policy—it’s an investment in people. Families who receive child care assistance report greater financial stability, more time with their children, and the freedom to pursue work or education that strengthens their future.

To meet rising demand and ensure quality care, New Mexico is also making targeted investments to expand the early childhood workforce and infrastructure:

• A $12.7 million low-interest loan fund to construct, expand, and renovate facilities—with an additional $20 million requested for FY 2027.

• Incentive rates for programs that commit to paying entry-level staff at least $18/hour and offer extended hours of care.

• Focused growth in infant-toddler care, low-income families, and children with special needs.

• A statewide campaign to recruit licensed and registered home providers to meet community needs.
  

“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.”

A Vision Rooted in Data and Community

Experts from across the country are taking notice. Dr. Neal Halfon of UCLA called New Mexico’s model “rooted in data, driven by communities, and becoming a model for the nation.” Michelle Kang, President and CEO of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), praised the initiative for prioritizing “public investments in early childhood educators, families, and children,” noting that New Mexico is leading the way toward a sustainable and affordable system that “helps its communities and economy thrive.”

Why This Matters to Tribal and Rural Communities

For Tribal and rural communities across New Mexico, this announcement is especially meaningful. Access to affordable child care can be a deciding factor in whether families can pursue education, employment, or cultural and community engagement.

By expanding universal access, the state is reducing barriers for Native and non-Native families alike, supporting Tribal early learning programs, and advancing a shared vision—that every child deserves a strong, culturally grounded start in life.

Leading with Courage and Commitment

At NICCA, we believe that every investment in early childhood is an investment in sovereignty, community well-being, and the next generation of leaders. New Mexico’s approach shows what’s possible when states center families, honor early educators, and recognize child care as a vital part of public infrastructure.

We celebrate this milestone as a model for other states—and as a testament to what can happen when leadership, advocacy, and community come together with a shared purpose: to strengthen our children, and in turn, the future of our nations.

For more information and resources on universal child care in New Mexico, visit the ECECD Universal Child Care Toolkit.