New Mexico expands childcare access, faces workforce challenges
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In 2025, New Mexico became the first US state to implement universal, free childcare, following a 12-year campaign by advocates.
Governor Michele Lujan Grisham signed legislation extending eligibility for government-funded childcare to all residents, regardless of income. This action inspired New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to pursue a similar program. Since the program launched, public childcare enrollments in New Mexico have increased by 15,000 children, but waitlists are growing as demand outpaces available spots.
Experts point to low wages and staffing shortages as the biggest obstacles to fully realizing the program’s potential. A report from New Mexico Voices for Children emphasized the need to strengthen the early childhood workforce, expand access to high-quality programs, and provide students with necessary support. Matthew Henderson, director of the OLÉ Education Fund, noted the program has allowed thousands of parents to save tens of thousands of dollars on childcare.
However, he also explained that the state needs to increase capacity to serve all families who need help. The state’s Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) has proposed a “salary and career ladder” to support recruitment and retention, but advocates say implementation has been slow and lacks dedicated funding. Governor Lujan Grisham hopes New Mexico’s model will inspire other states and candidates to invest in childcare.
Advocates like Henderson plan to continue organizing early childhood educators to demand professional wages and ensure the program’s long-term success.
