The proposed bill enacts the Child Care Facility Licensing Act in New Mexico, establishing a regulatory framework for child care facilities. It requires that all child care facilities obtain a license from the Early Childhood Education and Care Department, which is empowered to conduct inspections, investigate complaints, and enforce compliance through sanctions, penalties, and the revocation or suspension of licenses. The bill also allows license-exempt child care facilities to register with the department to participate in federal child care assistance programs. Additionally, it outlines the application and renewal process for licenses, establishes a tiered fee structure, and enables individuals to submit complaints about facilities, ensuring prompt investigations. The legislation aims to enhance the safety, health, and welfare of children in care settings.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws to improve early childhood education programs, particularly focusing on early pre-kindergarten and pre-kindergarten initiatives. It emphasizes access to high-quality programs for all young children, including those with disabilities, and introduces universal and free early pre-kindergarten and pre-kindergarten programs. The definitions section is updated to clarify key terms and establish standards for program delivery and monitoring. The bill mandates the early childhood education and care department to develop these programs in collaboration with public education entities, while also prioritizing community-based programming in areas of significant need. A tiered rating system for early childhood care programs is introduced, which will affect funding rates based on service quality, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 32A-23-2, 32A-23-3, 32A-23-4, 32A-23-6, 32A-23C-1, 32A-23C-2, 32A-23C-3
JU substitute: 32A-23-3, 32A-23-4, 32A-23-6, 32A-23C-1, 32A-23C-2, 32A-23C-3
PA substitute: 32A-23-2, 32A-23-3, 32A-23-4, 32A-23-6, 32A-23C-1, 32A-23C-2, 32A-23C-3