NEST Act
Congress proposes up to $5M yearly grants for newborn supply kits, prioritizing rural and low-income families
Stalled
No legislative action in over 90 days.
Legislative Progress
Key Points
- Creates a federal project to buy and hand out “newborn supply kits” to mothers after childbirth.
- Kits would include basics like diapers, wipes, blankets, a thermometer, postpartum supplies, breastfeeding info, and a blood pressure monitor.
- Allows the federal health agency to set aside up to $5 million each year from 2026–2030 to fund these kits through grants.
- Nonprofits and partners like community health centers, Tribal groups, and hospitals could help get kits to families in many states.
- Directs help first to high-need areas (like rural “maternity care deserts”) and to families under 185% of the poverty line, with reports to Congress on results.
Impact Analysis
Personal Impact
How this policy affects specific groups of people
Milestones
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
Introduced in House
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
Votes
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
Related News
2 articles
Congresswoman Julia Letlow introduces bill to help new moms
Local coverage of the NEST Act’s newborn supply kit concept and grant funding, with quotes from Rep. Julia Letlow and discussion of rural “maternity care deserts.”
PRESS RELEASE: Rep. Barragán joins Reps. Letlow, Schrier to Introduce Bipartisan Maternal Support Bill
Announcement describing the NEST Act’s newborn supply kit distribution focus and intended targeting of underserved areas and maternal health deserts.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
NEST Act
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
(11)Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.