How much is universal child care expected to cost per year?

Official source

New Mexico expects to spend about $463 million on child care assistance in fiscal year 2026 (FY26), which includes the cost of implementing universal access beginning November 1, 2025. We expect to spend less than $600 million in the first full year of implementation (FY27).

Child care makes up the vast majority of the Early Childhood Education and Care Department’s budget, accounting for almost half of the requested $1.16 billion. This reflects the state’s commitment to helping families afford care.

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How much is universal child care expected to cost per year?

Official source

New Mexico expects to spend about $463 million on child care assistance in fiscal year 2026 (FY26), which includes the cost of implementing universal access beginning November 1, 2025. We expect to spend less than $600 million in the first full year of implementation (FY27).

Child care makes up the vast majority of the Early Childhood Education and Care Department’s budget, accounting for almost half of the requested $1.16 billion. This reflects the state’s commitment to helping families afford care.