Judge considers arguments in challenge to New Mexico's universal childcare program

A judge will hear a challenge to New Mexico’s new universal childcare program after critics called the administration’s removal of income caps and co-pays “executive overreach.”
A court pause could make thousands of families pay daycare again and disrupt businesses; providers say the expansion has boosted enrollment and stabilized billing.
The nation‑leading program — largely funded by oil-and-gas revenue — is drawing national interest but also questions about sustainability after faster‑than‑expected enrollment growth.