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Universal Child Care

Starting November 1, 2025, New Mexico will offer universal access to no-cost child care by removing income limits, waiving copays, and expanding eligibility for families facing special circumstances. This landmark initiative also invests in provider pay, workforce stability, and expanded child care supply to ensure every family can access safe, high-quality care statewide.

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New Mexico is first state in nation to offer universal child care

Sep 8, 2025

New Mexico will become the first state in the nation to guarantee no-cost universal child care starting November 1, extending access to every family regardless of income and saving families an average of $12,000 per child each year. This historic investment strengthens family stability, supports the workforce, and positions New Mexico as a national model for building a sustainable, high-quality early learning system.

Read the complete press release here.

More Coming Soon!

We’re building a full set of resources to help families, providers, and partners share the news about Universal Child Care in New Mexico.

Check back soon for:

  • Communication toolkit

  • Informational one-pagers

  • FAQ + more! 

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Informational Executive Summary

Sep 8, 2025

Why It Matters

  • Saves families an average of $12,804 per child per year
  • Strengthens family stability and workforce participation
  • Positions New Mexico as the first state in the nation with universal child care

How It Works

  • No income limits — all families are eligible
  • Copays waived — child care is completely free
  • Expanded eligibility for families facing special circumstances
  • Flexible hours — no more restrictions tied to work or school schedule

View the Informational Executive Summary. 

Meeting Families’ Demand for Child Care

New Licensed Centers

Supports 6,600 Children

New Licensed Homes

Supports 1,400 Children

New Registered Homes

Supports 4,000 Children

Supports 12,000 additional children in New Mexico.