For the first time in U.S. history, New Mexico has become the first state to offer free child care to all families, no matter how much they earn.
The new policy, which took effect on November 1, is expected to save parents roughly $12,000 per child every year.
“Child care is essential to family stability, workforce participation, and New Mexico’s future prosperity,” said Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. “With universal child care, we are giving families financial relief, boosting our economy, and making sure every child has the chance to grow and thrive.”
New Mexico has struggled for years with low rankings in child well-being. The 2025 Kids Count report shows that 60% of children ages 3 and 4 are not enrolled in school.
State leaders and child welfare experts believe this new free child care program can help change that.
“New Mexico is creating the conditions for better outcomes in health, learning, and well-being,” said Neal Halfon, professor of pediatrics, public health, and public policy at the University of California, Los Angeles.
Besides offering no-cost child care, the state has also introduced new efforts to expand access. This includes launching a recruitment push for more licensed and registered home-based child care providers.
Additionally, a $12.7 million low-interest loan fund has been set up to help build, expand, and renovate child care centers.
