2010 Session Starts January 19th

State's Financial Situation Will Affect Access to Child Care Services

Why does it matter what happens in the Legislature? 

The Legislature in the Special Session of 2009 held in October was unable to fully address the $650 million deficit in the current fiscal year. Our state budget at $6.2 billion in 2007 has been reduced over the last two legislative sessions to about $5.2 billion. Cuts have impacted all services provided by state government including public and higher education, health services including Medicaid, children and adult services as well as transportation and corrections programs. Though one time only stimulus money has been and will be utilized to fill some of the gap, the Legislature in the 2010 session will have to consider raising certain taxes. In 2010, the Legislature will probably be making more cuts and deeper cuts to essential services including education. Medicaid alone will need an additional $300 million to maintain services at the current level of benefits and client load. The Children, Youth and Families Department have already started a waiting list for families needing child care. You and your centers whether you take state assisted children or not will be impacted by cuts in government which means people lose their jobs, services are decreased and ultimately taxes may be increased.

What can I do in the 2010 Legislative Session? 

Stay informed by being part of our email alert system. When we ask you to call or email your legislator, please do it. Your Association is working to protect your interest and those of the children you serve. Get to know your local legislator – invite them to your center for a visit before the session starts. We will provide you with legislators’ names and help you set up visits. 

Time will tell if the recession is truly ending, but it will take years for state government and the services it provides to return to normal. 

Look forward to a lively 30 day legislative session beginning on January 19, 2010. 

Linda Siegle, 
Lobbyist for NMCCEA