Central ND News

In an effort to address the pressing issue of diaper affordability, U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer and Tammy Duckworth have introduced the bipartisan End Diaper Need Act. This legislation aims to support low-income and middle-class families by making diapers a qualified medical expense, thus allowing families to purchase them using Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs).

The bill also proposes an annual allocation of $200 million from 2022 to 2025 for the Social Services Block Grant Program. This funding is intended to provide diapers and related supplies for infants, toddlers, medically complex children, low-income adults, and adults with disabilities.

Senator Cramer emphasized the necessity of this initiative, stating: “Diapers are a basic necessity for all babies and toddlers, but many families struggle to afford enough diapers for their children.” He highlighted that the bill would help increase access to diapers for those in need while updating tax policies to better accommodate family needs.

Senator Duckworth added her perspective on the importance of this measure: “No parent should have to choose between paying the bills and buying something as basic as diapers that are essential to the health and well-being of their children.” She expressed pride in reintroducing this bipartisan effort alongside Senators Cramer and Welch.

The End Diaper Need Act has garnered endorsements from various organizations including the National Diaper Bank Network, Aeroflow, Center for Baby and Adult Hygiene Products, Center for Law and Social Policy, Child Welfare League of America, Coalition for Human Needs, First Focus for Children, HDI Wholesale, HIPPY US, JSL, Kimberly-Clark, MomsRising, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, and ZERO TO THREE.