Recognizing the importance of diapers to infant health and family well-being, and expressing support for the designation of the week of September 15 to September 21, 2025, as "National Diaper Need Awareness Week".
H. Res. 736 is a non-binding House Resolution introduced in the 119th Congress recognizing the importance of diapers for infant health and family well-being and expressing support for designating September 15–21, 2025 as National Diaper Need Awareness Week. The resolution does not create new rules or funding; instead, it is a symbolic measure that highlights diaper need as a public health and economic issue, commends diaper banks and related organizations, and urges Americans to donate to diaper banks and diaper drives. It cites data on the prevalence and cost of diaper need, its impact on childcare participation and parental work, associated health concerns, and the role of diaper banks in distributing free diapers. Sponsors listed in the bill include Rep. Rosa DeLauro (for herself, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Rep. Rashida Tlaib). The resolution was introduced in the House and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. The intended impact is to raise awareness, honor the work of diaper banks, and encourage public and private support for addressing diaper need.
Key Points
- 1Diapers are described as a basic necessity essential to keeping babies clean, dry, and healthy.
- 2Diaper need affects a substantial share of families with young children (nearly 1 in 2, per cited surveys and studies) and imposes significant cost (about $80–$100 per month, or ~14% of a low-wage family’s post-tax income).
- 3Lack of diapers can hinder participation in childcare and early education programs, leading to missed work and lost income, creating a cycle that worsens financial strain.
- 4Diaper need is framed as a preventable public health issue, with potential health risks if babies do not have enough clean diapers.
- 5The resolution highlights diaper banks and the National Diaper Bank Network as key mechanisms for providing free diapers, notes they operate across all states plus DC and Puerto Rico, and acknowledges their philanthropic funding model.
- 6The resolution designates September 15–21, 2025 as National Diaper Need Awareness Week and calls for public support, including donations to diaper banks and diaper drives.