Megan Kamrick

The program made New Mexico the first state to cover child care costs for most families.

Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, who is term-limited out after this year, launched the program last year, before the legislature actually approved funding in February.

Republican Duke Rodriguez sued the state while running for governor, although he recently lost the primary election.

He told New Mexico PBS this policy has to be done lawfully.

The ruling means parents who are working in school or qualify for an exemption will continue to receive free child care assistance.

For NPR News, I'm Megan Kamrick in Albuquerque.

Wait, this is true?

We were very aggressive with case investigation and contact tracing.

So trying to stop spread once a case was identified.