Federal grants would fund newborn kits if Congress provides money

The federal health secretary would fund eligible nonprofits to obtain and distribute newborn supply kits. Eligible grant recipients would be nonprofit organizations with a presence in multiple states. Recipients must partner with local groups and seek geographic diversity as far as practical. They must prioritize the neediest areas and families at or below 185% of the poverty line for their size. Congress would still need to provide the authorized money. The funding authorization would cover $5 million for each fiscal year from 2027 through 2031.

Each kit would include basic supplies for the baby and mother, a blood pressure monitor, and health and benefit information. The kits would support mothers recovering from childbirth and caring for newborn infants. Information would cover breastfeeding, support hotlines and programs, and the use of low-dose aspirin for certain pregnancy-related risks. The health secretary could add other items needed for infant or postpartum health.

The health secretary would send Congress progress and final results reports on the funding awards. The reports would cover people served, distribution regions, recipients’ feedback, and maternal and infant health results. The progress report must break down the number of mothers served by race, income, and household size. The progress report would be due no later than one year after the first award. The final report would be due no later than 180 days after the last award made for fiscal year 2030.