The New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) has unveiled its fiscal year 2025 (FY25) budget proposal. The proposed budget includes a significant increase of $149,372,000 in general funds compared to FY24, as well as special appropriations amounting to $23,500,000. The department's intention is to use these funds to bolster early childhood programs and services, maintain expanded eligibility for childcare assistance, and invest in quality support for early childhood providers and professionals.
According to the ECECD's FY25 budget request, the total operating budget is projected at $818,186,900. Notable elements include a general fund increase request of $75,714,000 earmarked for child care with the goal of preserving expanded eligibility and enhancing access for infants and toddlers. An allocation of $40,000,000 is set aside for quality initiatives centered on research-based assessments, coaching, and professional development. The New Mexico PreK program is slated to receive $33,000,000 to extend access to an additional 2,700 children. Special appropriations comprise $12,000,000 dedicated to family support and early intervention; $6,500,000 for policy research and quality initiatives; and $5,000,000 for program support that includes low-interest loans aimed at expanding childcare supply in underserved communities. This information was provided in a press release by the ECECD.
"Because of bold investments by our state legislature and strong leadership from our governor," ECECD Cabinet Secretary Elizabeth Groginsky said "New Mexico has shot to the front of the pack in early childhood education and care." Groginsky further noted that "Families across the state are feeling the benefits," adding that "this budget solidifies those gains and maintains our forward momentum." She also stated that "This proposal will allow us to serve more children with high-quality care," asserting that it "keeps child care free for a majority of New Mexico families, and ensures that the early childhood workforce has the credentials they need and the compensation they deserve."
The ECECD is committed to establishing a cohesive and equitable early childhood system in New Mexico. According to information provided by the department, it supervises programs from prenatal to age five, including child care and nutrition services for older children and families.
