“New Mexico’s Anti-Poverty Measures Significantly Reduce Child Poverty Rate”
For the first time, a federal report breaks down New Mexico’s child poverty rate, factoring in the impact of anti-poverty measures like tax credits and food assistance. Advocates say the results are something the state can be proud of.
Before accounting for these interventions, New Mexico ranks last in the nation for child poverty, with a rate exceeding 27% — well above the national average of 17%. However, when these anti-poverty measures are considered, the U.S. Census Bureau’s “supplemental poverty measure” shows New Mexico’s rate drops to just under 9%. This places the state at 22nd in the nation, below the national average.
Emily Wildau, senior research and policy analyst at New Mexico Voices for Children, credits government programs for the significant improvement.
“When you look at the child tax credit, the earned income tax credit, and non-cash benefits like SNAP, these measures are making a substantial difference in lifting families above the poverty line,” Wildau said.
What’s notable about New Mexico’s case is that, unlike most states where supplemental poverty rates increase due to added family expenses, New Mexico’s rate decreases.
“Absolutely, we should feel proud of this achievement,” Wildau added.
The data is based on a three-year average, which includes the period when federal pandemic relief was still bolstering services like Medicaid. Since those programs have ended, more children are losing health insurance coverage.
“Poverty is a policy choice. When we let those programs expire, we see poverty rates rise again,” Wildau said.
Despite the expiration of pandemic-related aid, Wildau believes New Mexico’s supplemental child poverty rate will stay low, thanks to ongoing state efforts, such as extending Medicaid coverage until a child reaches age six.
She also emphasized that this report can guide legislators by highlighting the effectiveness of certain programs and pinpointing areas that need further improvement.
