New Mexico has provided a road map to free childcare for families through innovative legislation. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico, is pioneering the way to make New Mexico the first state to provide free childcare for families who are at or below the 400% federal poverty level. This legislation will provide concrete supports in times of need for families who struggle to make ends meet. This is an important protective factor to prevent future trauma from occurring and mitigating the effects of trauma and caregivers struggle with inflation and economic uncertainty.
The median household income in New Mexico is $51,243.00. Under the new legislation, a family of four that is making less than $110,000.00 is eligible for free childcare. This legislation provides much needed relief for working families. Many low-income families find themselves, "working to be able to put their child through childcare." Hopefully other states can follow the road paved by New Mexico. The funding for this program is embedded within the state budget and there is no, "ticking clock" to when the program ends.
Free childcare also needs to be paired with high-quality early learning environments. Licensed and accredited family childcare and center-based centers are needed to add protective factors and provide children to prepare children for life success. Great news for early childhood advocates!
Mālama,
Danny
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