H.R.3508 - End Diaper Need Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3508, the End Diaper Need Act of 2025, aims to provide targeted funding through the Social Services Block Grant program to address diaper need among low-income families, medically complex children, and adults with disabilities. The bill increases funding for the Social Services Block Grant program by $200 million annually from 2026 to 2029. It also allows for the inclusion of diapers and diapering supplies as qualified medical expenses under Health Savings Accounts, Archer MSAs, and Flexible Spending Arrangements.
The bill directs funds to eligible entities for the purchase and distribution of diapers and adult incontinence materials. It also mandates annual reports from states detailing the use of funds and requires an evaluation of the program's effectiveness.
Furthermore, the Act amends Section 255(h) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 to exempt the targeted funding from sequestration.
Expected Effects
The bill would increase access to diapers and diapering supplies for low-income families, medically complex children, and adults with disabilities. This would be achieved through increased funding to states via the Social Services Block Grant program.
Additionally, the bill would provide tax benefits by allowing these supplies to be considered qualified medical expenses. This could alleviate some financial strain on affected families and individuals.
Finally, the Act would require states to report on the distribution of these supplies, ensuring accountability and transparency.
Potential Benefits
- Provides direct financial assistance to low-income families, medically complex children, and adults with disabilities by increasing access to essential hygiene products.
- Improves public health by reducing the risk of infections and skin conditions associated with inadequate diapering and incontinence care.
- Supports early childhood development by ensuring infants and toddlers have access to clean diapers, which can improve their comfort and well-being.
- Offers tax relief to families with medically complex children and adults with disabilities by allowing them to use health savings accounts and flexible spending arrangements for diaper and diapering supply purchases.
- Strengthens community partnerships by involving diaper banks and other non-profit organizations in the distribution of diapers and diapering supplies.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased government spending could contribute to the national debt if not offset by other budget reductions.
- Potential for administrative overhead and inefficiencies in the distribution of funds at the state and local levels.
- Possible challenges in ensuring equitable distribution of resources across different geographic areas and populations.
- Risk of fraud or misuse of funds by eligible entities or individuals.
- The evaluation requirement adds to the administrative burden and costs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to provide assistance to vulnerable populations. Specifically, the preamble states the intention to "promote the general Welfare".
Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare under Article I, Section 8, Clause 1. The bill's provisions for funding through the Social Services Block Grant program and tax benefits fall under this power.
However, some may argue that such a program represents an overreach of federal power into areas traditionally managed by states or individuals, raising questions about the balance of power between the federal government and the states.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).