Universal Child Care is Now the Law in New Mexico

Statement

SANTA FE, NM — Universal child care is now the law in New Mexico, marking a historic milestone for children, families, and early childhood educators across the state. 

With the codification of SB 241, New Mexico has taken a historic step toward ensuring families can access the child care they need. The legislation makes child care free for all families through the state’s Child Care Assistance Program and enshrines universal child care into state law. In addition, the signing of HB 2, the state’s general fund budget, preserves $60 million in funding with the intent to implement a wage and career ladder for early childhood professionals, a critical investment in stabilizing and strengthening the early childhood workforce. 

These achievements come after more than a decade of advocacy from early childhood educators, parents, tribal leaders, and community organizations across the state who worked tirelessly to ensure children and families receive the support they deserve. 

Save the Children Action Network (SCAN) applauds the leadership of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, Early Childhood Education and Care Department Secretary Elizabeth Groginsky, and the Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) for their continued commitment to strengthening New Mexico’s early childhood system. 

“Making universal child care the law in New Mexico is a historic victory for children, families, and the early childhood educators who make this system possible,” said Nina Quintana, New Mexico State Manager for Save the Children Action Network. “For more than a decade, advocates across our state have fought for this moment. Codifying universal child care and investing in the wage and career ladder sends a powerful message that New Mexico values both our children and the workforce that cares for them. Today, our state is showing the nation what it looks like to truly invest in families and the future of our communities.” 

Save the Children Action Network congratulates the many advocates, educators, and partners across New Mexico whose leadership made this historic achievement possible and looks forward to continuing to work alongside state leaders and community partners to ensure these investments translate into lasting opportunity for every child statewide. 

SCAN also thanks Speaker of the House Javier Martinez and the leaders of the House Appropriations and Finance Committee, Chair Nathan Small and Vice-Chair Meredith Dixon, for championing the wage and career ladder. 

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Contact: Melissa Taveras, Senior Advisor External Relations and Public Affairs at mtaveras@savechildren.org.

Save the Children Action Network advocates programs that benefit children and hardworking families, both in the United States and globally. We will continue working with leaders on both sides of the aisle to protect and strengthen investments in children, ensuring that every child, no matter where they live, has the chance to reach their full potential. 

Learn more about SCAN here: https://savethechildrenactionnetwork.org/