Military Family Diaper Partnership Act
- Bill Number
- H.R. 7657
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Armed Forces and National Security
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-02-24: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.
- Last Updated
- 2026-07-01T08:09:04Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
The Military Family Diaper Partnership Act (H.R. 7657) aims to support military families facing financial challenges by funding the distribution of diapers and diapering supplies. It directs the Secretary of Defense to partner with a non-profit organization to create a dedicated fund, addressing basic needs for service members' households.
Key Provisions
- Funding Agreement: The Secretary of Defense must seek an agreement with the National Diaper Bank Network to provide $1,000,000 annually for fiscal years 2027 through 2030. This money establishes and supports a "Military Family Diaper Fund."
- Matching Requirement: The Network must contribute matching funds or in-kind donations (non-cash contributions like donated goods) from non-federal sources, equal to or greater than the federal amount provided.
- Distribution Rules: Funds can only go to Network members who have distributed diapers or supplies within 20 miles of a U.S. military installation for at least five years. These funds are restricted to:
- Providing diapers and supplies directly to military families in need.
- Offering technical assistance (e.g., training or guidance) and evaluations by the Network.
- Reporting: The Network must submit an annual report to the Secretary of Defense detailing fund activities from the previous fiscal year.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This bill introduces a new federal funding mechanism specifically for diaper assistance targeted at military families. It does not amend prior laws but creates a novel public-private partnership, requiring non-federal matching contributions to leverage federal dollars. No existing diaper or family support programs for the military are directly referenced or altered.
Potential Impacts
- Government Agencies: The Department of Defense (DoD) will allocate funds from its budget, potentially straining resources but fostering partnerships with non-profits. It adds administrative duties, such as negotiating agreements and reviewing reports.
- Citizens: Military families, particularly those with young children and financial hardships, gain access to essential, free diapering supplies near bases, reducing household costs (diapers can be a significant expense). This could improve family well-being and retention in the military.
- International Relations: No direct impacts; the focus is domestic support for U.S. service members.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Military Families: Primary beneficiaries, receiving direct aid for basic needs.
- National Diaper Bank Network and Its Members: Non-profit organizations handling fund management, distribution, and matching contributions; they gain federal support but must comply with strict eligibility and reporting rules.
- Department of Defense: Responsible for funding and oversight, influencing military support programs.
- Local Communities Near Military Installations: Indirectly benefit through sustained non-profit activities in diaper distribution.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: The bill promotes accountability through matching requirements and targeted use of funds, reducing risks of misuse. It relies on voluntary agreements, avoiding mandates that could face legal challenges.
- Constitutional: Aligns with Congress's power to appropriate funds for the military (under Article I, Section 8), framing diaper support as enhancing service member welfare and readiness. No apparent free speech, privacy, or equal protection issues.
- Political: Highlights bipartisan interest in military family support (introduced by representatives from different parties), potentially setting a precedent for niche welfare programs within defense budgets. It encourages private sector involvement, which could appeal to fiscal conservatives while addressing social needs for progressives. The four-year funding window allows for evaluation before renewal.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Foushee, Valerie P. [D-NC-4]
Cosponsors (6)
Rep. Mackenzie, Ryan [R-PA-7], Del. Norton, Eleanor Holmes [D-DC-At Large], Rep. Lawler, Michael [R-NY-17], Rep. McBath, Lucy [D-GA-6], Rep. Crockett, Jasmine [D-TX-30], Rep. Ross, Deborah K. [D-NC-2]
Recent Actions
- 2026-02-24: Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.
- 2026-02-24: Introduced in House
- 2026-02-24: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Military Family Diaper Partnership Act — issued 2026-02-24 — PDF (3 pages)