New Mexico is set to become the first U.S. state to offer universal free child care, as announced by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. The initiative will provide no-cost child care to all residents, irrespective of income levels. This landmark decision aims to boost family stability, workforce participation, and future prosperity in New Mexico. The state’s Early Childhood Education and Care Department is tasked with drafting rules to eliminate income thresholds for child care assistance by November 1.
The current system waives parent copays for families earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level. The new policy will save families about $12,000 each year, according to the governor’s office. Gov. Lujan Grisham acknowledged the significant efforts required to achieve this milestone, including legislative support and voter-approved funding sources.
In 2022, New Mexico voters passed a Constitutional Amendment to utilize state funds for building an early childhood education system. “That was always the vision,” Gov. Lujan Grisham stated, emphasizing the long journey to this achievement. Alongside free child care, new rules will allow local entities to apply for low-interest loans to create or expand child care facilities.
Secretary Elizabeth Groginsky of the Early Childhood Education and Care Department highlighted plans to open 12,000 to 13,000 new child care slots, including 55 new licensed centers and 1,000 new registered homes. The initiative has garnered interest from industry leaders and school superintendents, aiming for a collaborative strategy involving various sectors.
Gov. Lujan Grisham described universal child care as crucial for enabling parents to work or pursue education, stating, “It’s going to make New Mexico extremely attractive to build your business here.” The proposal also includes increased pay for child care providers, offering additional funding if entry-level workers earn between $18 and $21 per hour and centers operate at least 10 hours daily.
Dr. Neal Halfon from the University of California Los Angeles praised New Mexico’s comprehensive approach to early childhood support, calling it a “national model.” The recent legislative session boosted the department’s budget by $113 million, totaling $995 million, with $463 million allocated specifically for child care. Additionally, the Early Childhood Trust Fund, initiated in 2020, has grown from $320 million to $10 billion, as noted by Lt. Gov. Howie Morales.
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