The proposed "Child Care Facility Licensing Act" establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for child care facilities in New Mexico, requiring all such facilities to obtain a license from the Early Childhood Education and Care Department. The bill empowers the department to conduct inspections, investigate complaints, and enforce compliance through various measures, including the imposition of sanctions and the revocation or suspension of licenses. It also allows license-exempt child care facilities to register with the department, enabling their participation in federal child care assistance programs. Additionally, the legislation introduces new definitions related to child care, sets application requirements for early pre-kindergarten and pre-kindergarten services, and amends existing laws to align with the new licensing framework.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of access to high-quality early childhood education programs for all young children, including those with disabilities, and introduces the concept of universal and free early pre-kindergarten and pre-kindergarten programs. It updates definitions, expands eligibility criteria, and mandates the establishment of standards and performance measures for these programs. The bill outlines the responsibilities of the early childhood education and care department in implementing these initiatives, promotes interagency cooperation, and ensures that allocated funds are not used for religious purposes. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on 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