NEST Act

This bill would let the federal Maternal and Child Health program fund the purchase and distribution of newborn supply kits to new mothers. The kits would include items such as diapers, wipes, blankets, thermometers, postpartum pads, breastfeeding supplies, a blood pressure monitor, and information on maternal health hotlines and federal support programs. For fiscal years 2026 through 2030, the Secretary of Health and Human Services could set aside up to $5 million per year for this purpose, awarded through grants or cooperative agreements with nonprofit groups that operate in more than one state. Distributors would partner with local organizations and give priority to high-need areas and to families with incomes at or below 185 percent of the poverty line. The Secretary would report to Congress on the program's progress and results.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Julia Letlow Republican sponsor
• 22 cosponsors