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Judge Dismisses Lawsuit, Keeps New Mexico Universal Childcare

6/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

District Judge Elaine Lujan dismissed the plaintiffs' lawsuit, keeping New Mexico’s universal childcare program in effect.
Plaintiffs argued the governor’s expansion violated the state’s separation of powers by bypassing legislative approval.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham called the ruling a rejection of a frivolous challenge and affirmed the program’s legality.
Attorney Jacob Candelaria said he will appeal to the New Mexico Supreme Court, asserting the case concerns constitutional rights.

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Story summary

District Judge Elaine Lujan dismissed the plaintiffs' lawsuit, keeping New Mexico’s universal childcare program in effect.
Plaintiffs argued the governor’s expansion violated the state’s separation of powers by bypassing legislative approval.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham called the ruling a rejection of a frivolous challenge and affirmed the program’s legality.
Attorney Jacob Candelaria said he will appeal to the New Mexico Supreme Court, asserting the case concerns constitutional rights.