ECECD News:

On Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, after close of business, the federal Office of Child Care sent states updated guidance about monthly reporting requirements under the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF). Please see ACF – Office of Child Care Bulletin.

The guidance asks for some additional details in monthly reports to the federal government. This information is already part of what Early Childhood Education & Care Department (ECECD) submits, so there will be no disruption to Child Care Assistance payments. Providers will not need to submit any new paperwork or information to receive payments.

Also on Jan. 5, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services proposed rescinding certain CCDF policies that were put in place in 2024. See: HHS to Close Biden-Era Loophole That Let States Pay Child Care Providers Without Counting Attendance | HHS.gov. These proposed changes are in a 30-day public comment period. Currently, ECECD does not expect these proposals to affect childcare operations, programs, or payments in New Mexico.

NMECECD is closely watching these developments and will give updates every step of the way. Childcare is essential to New Mexico’s children and families, and ECECD is committed to supporting the provider community and families of young children through any changes ahead.