We, the undersigned residents of Florida, respectfully petition the State of Florida to enact legislation establishing universal free childcare for all families, regardless of income level, following the groundbreaking example set by New Mexico in September 2025.

Florida families are facing an unprecedented childcare crisis that is undermining our economy, limiting workforce participation, and placing enormous financial strain on working families:

• Florida has 1.34 million children under age 5 66% of these children have all available parents in the workforce
• Only 308,230 children (23%) currently receive federal and state early learning support
• The average cost of center-based childcare is $13,011 annually ($1,084 per month)
• Single-parent families spend 31.6% of their median income on childcare
• Even married couples spend 11.5% of their median income on childcare
• Florida loses an estimated $6.6 billion annually due to childcare challenges

On September 8, 2025, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced that her state will become the first in the nation to guarantee no-cost universal childcare starting November 1, 2025, removing income eligibility requirements and waiving all family copayments. This initiative will save New Mexico families an average of $12,000 per child annually.

"Child care is essential to family stability, workforce participation, and New Mexico's future prosperity," said Governor Lujan Grisham. "By investing in universal child care, we are giving families financial relief, supporting our economy, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow and thrive."

New Mexico's initiative is expected to serve as "a model for the nation" and demonstrates that universal free childcare is not only possible but economically beneficial. Florida, with its growing economy and diverse population, has the opportunity to be the second state to guarantee this fundamental support for families.

Other states are watching New Mexico's success. Florida cannot afford to fall behind in supporting our families and strengthening our workforce. Our children deserve the best possible start in life, and our families deserve the freedom to pursue their dreams without the burden of prohibitive childcare costs.

By signing this petition, you are joining thousands of Florida families, educators, business leaders, and advocates who believe that universal free childcare is not just a dream—it's an achievable goal that will transform our state for the better.

Together, we can make Florida the second state in the nation to guarantee that no family has to choose between working and caring for their children.

The future of Florida's families depends on the actions we take today. Sign this petition and help us build a better tomorrow for every child in the Sunshine State.