New Mexico Launches Universal Free Child Care

On November 1, 2025, New Mexico launched a universal, no-cost child care program for all families in the state, regardless of income, which could save thousands of dollars per family annually. Previously, the state offered no-cost child care to families with incomes at or below 400% of the federal poverty level.

For this initiative, the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department removed income eligibility requirements from the state’s child care assistance program. It is continuing to waive family copayments. Families are projected to save an average of $12,000 per child per year.

The program . . .