New Mexico is the first state in America to guarantee free child care to every parent, starting Nov. 1.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham made the announcement on Sept. 8. The state already had free child care available to families with incomes at or below 400% of the federal poverty level. But starting in November, the program will be available to all parents, regardless of income.
"By investing in universal child care, we are giving families financial relief, supporting our economy, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow and thrive," Lujan Grisham said in a news release.
Here's what to know about the program, and if other states will follow suit.
Child care assistance program funds go directly to child care providers, not parents, said New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department Secretary Elizabeth Groginsky.
