H.R. 3743: Supporting Healthy Mothers and Infants Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Supporting Healthy Mothers and Infants Act of 2025, aims to amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to better assist women, infants, and children affected by substance use disorder. The key components of the bill include:

1. Terminology Update

The bill proposes to update the terminology used throughout the Child Nutrition Act. It replaces the term drug abuse with substance use disorder in various sections. This change reflects a more modern understanding of addiction and substance-related issues.

2. Focus on Education

Several sections of the Child Nutrition Act that discuss educational programs will see terminology changes to emphasize the need for awareness and education surrounding the effects of substance use disorder, particularly during pregnancy and lactation. Specific focuses include:

• Education on the harm of substance use during pregnancy and lactation.
• Outreach efforts targeting individuals who may have a substance use disorder.

3. Nutrition Education for Affected Individuals

The bill mandates that the Secretary of Agriculture develop and distribute nutrition education materials specifically tailored for individuals impacted by substance use disorder. This includes:

• Materials aimed at individuals during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
• Resources for infants who have been affected by prenatal substance exposure or neonatal abstinence syndrome.

This education will be executed in an unbiased manner to ensure that those affected receive accurate information from qualified personnel.

4. Nutrition Education Clearinghouse

The Secretary is required to create an online clearinghouse that houses nutrition education and training materials related to substance use disorder. This platform will serve state agencies and provide easy access to essential resources.

5. Funding Provisions

The bill authorizes an allocation of $1 million for the fiscal year 2026 to support the initiatives outlined in this legislation. This funding is specified to remain available until completely utilized.

6. Conforming Amendments

Finally, the bill includes conforming amendments to ensure that all references and sections within the Child Nutrition Act reflect the updated terminology and structure resulting from the changes proposed.

Relevant Companies

None found.