New Jersey Assembly Bill AR106

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22
• Report Pass: 1/19/23
• Passed: 1/26/23

Caption

Calls upon federal government to permit use of SNAP and WIC benefits to pay for diaper purchases.

Impact

The resolution outlines the necessity of diapers for maintaining the health of infants and toddlers, emphasizing that insufficient diaper supply can cause serious health issues such as infections and rashes. The financial burden of diaper expenses can consume up to 6% of a minimum wage earner's salary, thereby creating additional challenges for parents seeking to enroll their children in childcare services that require a steady supply of diapers. By allowing SNAP and WIC benefits to be applicable for such purchases, the resolution seeks to alleviate these economic pressures and promote better health outcomes for children.

Summary

Assembly Resolution No. 106 (AR106) was introduced in New Jersey to call upon the federal government to allow the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Special Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits for the purchase of diapers. This measure aims to address a significant barrier that many families face, as the cost of diapers can strain their financial situation. Currently, families are unable to use these benefits for diapers, leading to health risks for infants and toddlers due to inadequate diapering.

Contention

One notable point of contention discussed in relation to AR106 is the lack of federal support for families struggling with diaper needs. The resolution highlights that while assistance programs exist for food and child nutrition support, diapers are not included, forcing families to find alternative and often unsafe methods to manage their diaper supply. Additionally, some groups might resist this change due to potential budgetary concerns regarding the expansion of benefits. However, proponents argue that ensuring access to diapers will ultimately reduce healthcare costs associated with preventable medical conditions arising from inadequate diaper changing.