New Mexico childcare providers struggle as demand, waitlists increase

By: Matt Mondschein

Outlets: Source New Mexico

Published: September 10, 2026

Words: 571

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 3 days ago

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Last year, New Mexico became the first state to offer universal childcare, but one year after Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham unveiled the program, childcare center business leaders say they’re struggling to meet increasing demands and are concerned about long-term sustainability.

The program currently has 47,000 enrollees, with Early Childcare Education and Care officials estimating the number will increase to 58,000 children in the coming year.

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