New Mexico Launches Free Universal Child Care Program Next Week

New Mexico is set to become the first state in the United States to implement free universal child care starting next week. This groundbreaking initiative, championed by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, aims to alleviate the financial burden on families, saving them an average of $12,000 annually. The program will provide child care access to all families in the state, regardless of income.

Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating in an interview with CBS News, “In 41 states in America, your child care payment is more than your mortgage payment.” This statement reflects the struggles many families face, including those like Santa Fe teachers Hannah Mierley and Nathan Herzog. They currently spend over $14,000 per year on child care for their toddler, Atticus. “It is all of the leftover budget that we have,” Herzog remarked, while Mierley added, “It’s second to our mortgage.”

Funding and Expansion Plans

The funding for this child care program will come from New Mexico’s oil and gas revenues. Governor Lujan Grisham noted, “All sectors of our economy are overperforming. You can’t stay that course unless you have a robust early childhood and child care setting.” The initiative not only aims to cover costs but also seeks to expand the pool of child care providers. This will involve recruiting and licensing more registered home providers, including qualified family members, to meet the growing demand.

In addition to the child care coverage, the state plans to establish a $12.7 million low-interest loan fund specifically for the construction, expansion, and renovation of child care facilities. Another $20 million is being requested for 2027 to further support these efforts.

Addressing Criticism and Future Outlook

When questioned about criticisms labeling the program as a Democratic handout, Lujan Grisham countered, “I say it’s a Democrat that’s got twice the national average in economic output. This is about investing in mothers and fathers, being able to go back to the workforce.”

For Mierley and Herzog, the introduction of free universal child care represents a significant relief. “It gives us some relief,” Mierley stated. Herzog added, “It’s the first time that we can really start thinking about, ‘How do I prepare for Atticus’ future?'” The program not only alleviates immediate financial pressures but also opens doors for families to plan for long-term stability and growth.

As New Mexico sets this historic precedent, other states may look to its model as a potential blueprint for addressing child care costs and supporting working families. The success of this initiative could reshape the conversation around child care accessibility and affordability across the nation.