Congresswoman Schrier Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Support Mothers and Newborns

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Today, Congresswomen Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) and Julia Letlow (LA-05) introduced the Newborn Essentials Support Toolkit (NEST) Act, a bipartisan bill that would provide vital support and resources for mothers and infants.

"As a mother and a pediatrician, I understand the physical, mental, and financial challenges that mothers of newborns often face during the postpartum period," said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. "Mothers need all the support we can provide. That is why I am proud to introduce the bipartisan NEST Act that will ensure mothers have the supplies and resources they need to care for themselves and their newborns."

"Motherhood is a tremendous blessing and the highest calling of my life. In the days and moments after giving birth, I want all moms to have the support necessary to create a nurturing environment for their child, especially in maternal health deserts and our rural communities," said Congresswoman Julia Letlow. "We will keep working with our local hospitals and private sector partners to expand this program and provide meaningful support for mothers and their babies."

The NEST Act would authorize a pilot program through the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to provide supply kits to mothers with infants that include, but are not limited to, diapers, wipes, hygiene items, blankets, thermometers for newborns, postpartum pads, lotion, cold packs, breastfeeding supplies, blood pressure monitors, and information on the maternal health hotline. The program would focus on areas with increased need, such as rural communities, and priority will be given to mothers and infants whose family income does not exceed 185 percent of the federal poverty line.