New research out this month highlights the role of governance in shaping state-level child care policy. The paper, published in Policy Studies Journal and authored by CCPI Deputy Director Hailey Heinz, traces eligibility for the federal child care subsidy program in New Mexico and Nevada from 2010 to 2022, along with public discourse about the policy goals of the program. Drawing on in-depth analysis of legislative hearings, newspaper coverage, public speeches, and key informant interviews, the study documents patterns in how the goals of the child care subsidy program were characterized over time. These goals were wide-ranging and included preparing children for school, preventing child maltreatment, promoting self-sufficiency for families receiving public benefits, supporting workforce participation, and promoting economic security for a broader swath of families.

A key finding of the paper is that child care subsidy eligibility policy reflects the goals and mission of the department where the program is administered. Narrower eligibility was implemented by departments charged with serving more targeted populations (e.g. TANF recipients in Nevada or families at risk for child welfare involvement in New Mexico), while broader eligibility was implemented in the context of New Mexico’s move to a consolidated cabinet department focused on early childhood development.

The paper also explores the many other factors that contribute to eligibility policy, including fiscal constraints, the role of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the activities of policy entrepreneurs inside and outside of government. Read the paper here, or email hailey57@unm.edu to receive a PDF copy.