Overview of Proposed Legislation

FY27 Executive Budget

The FY27 Executive Budget builds on the strategic and successful investments of the New Mexico Legislature and Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham that have benefitted tens of thousands of New Mexico families and young children. The Executive Budget also supports ECECD’s 2022–2027 Strategic Plan through targeted recurring and non-recurring funding.

Resource: Check out ECECD’s 2026 Legislative and Budget Priorities flyer for more information about the budget request.

Universal Child Care

New Mexico is the first state in the nation to offer Universal Child Care, providing no-cost child care assistance to families who work or attend school, regardless of income. By removing income limits and co-payments, Universal Child Care ensures families can access care without financial barriers, saving an average of $14,000 per child per year in out-of-pocket costs.

This historic investment strengthens family stability, supports workforce participation, expands the economy, and positions New Mexico as a national leader in building a sustainable, high-quality early childhood system. By approving the FY27 Executive budget request of $160.6 million for Universal Child Care, lawmakers have the opportunity to make a generational change in the lives of New Mexico families and our state’s economy through one of the most cost-effective labor market policies ever evaluated in the US.

SB96 Child Care Zoning Requirement

This legislation creates statewide rules for where child care facilities can operate to increase the number of child care options and improve access to quality care. The bill treats licensed and registered child care homes the same as regular homes, removing extra local rules, fees, and parking requirements that make it harder to run a child care business.

Licensed child care centers would be allowed in commercial areas, mixed-use neighborhoods, and apartment buildings, and homeowners associations could not ban child care homes. These statewide rules make zoning laws consistent across New Mexico and remove barriers that limit child care availability in communities.

SB170 Child Care Facility Donation Tax Credit

You’re Invited to Celebrate Early Childhood at the Roundhouse

Save the Date | Saturday, February 14 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. | New Mexico State Capitol

Early Childhood Day at the Roundhouse returns in 2026 with the theme “When Child Care Works, New Mexico Works.” This year’s event will highlight Universal Child Care as a cornerstone of New Mexico’s commitment to working families, children, and communities.

Join early childhood educators, families, partners, and advocates at the State Capitol for a day of connection, learning, and celebration. Together, we will uplift how Universal Child Care and other early childhood investments help families thrive, strengthen communities, and support New Mexico’s workforce and economy.

Throughout the day, participants will have opportunities to:

• Learn more about Universal Child Care and other early childhood priorities

• Connect with families, providers, and advocates from across the state

• Celebrate the collective impact of early childhood programs on New Mexico’s future