Watson Coleman Reintroduces Improving Diaper Affordability Act

PRINCETON, NJ — Recognizing the financial challenge faced by families, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) has reintroduced the Improving Diaper Affordability Act to make diaper purchases tax-free.

She was joined by Congresswomen Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) and Barbara Lee (CA-12).

The legislation would also make the purchase of diapers reimbursable through Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

“Diapers are essential, not a luxury, and even before the pandemic, families were struggling to afford them,” Watson Coleman said.

“This legislation is a simple way to make sure that families aren’t stretching their stock and waiting to change a baby, which can lead to rashes and infections. We have to do more on every front to support working families trying to make ends meet – this is one way we can do that.”

According to pre-pandemic data, one in three families experienced diaper needs, and nearly half of the families delayed changing their child’s diaper to extend the supply.

Low-income families spent 14 percent of their post-tax earnings on diapers, the data noted.

The Congresswoman said that the need existed before COVID-19 and has only grown since, with diaper banks nationwide reporting two- to threefold increases in need.

“As families struggle to purchase diapers because of the rising cost of living, it is imperative we do all we can to keep children healthy and safe," Congresswoman DeLauro said.

"In my home state, diapers have been tax exempt since 2018, and Congress should help families around the country in those states that have not taken the same steps as Connecticut. I urge my colleagues to help us pass this critical legislation that will deeply impact a baby and child’s well-being.”

The legislation is cosponsored by Reps. Rashida Tlaib, Lloyd Doggett, Wiley Nickel, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Sheila Jackson Lee, Nydia Velazquez, Rob Menendez, Danny Davis, John Larson and Kevin Mullin.

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