WEEKLY UPDATE: 03/19/26
Advocates and lawmakers gathered at the state Capitol today to support HB 5486, An Act Concerning A Diaper Grant Program, highlighting the ongoing impact of diaper insecurity on families across Connecticut.
The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) joined the Diaper Bank of Connecticut, State Representative Jillian Gilchrest (D-West Hartford), and State Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown) at a press conference on Thursday, March 19 to raise awareness ahead of the bill’s consideration by the Human Services Committee.
The proposed legislation would establish a grant program to expand access to diapers through partnerships with community organizations and providers, helping ensure families can meet this essential need. Speakers emphasized that diaper affordability is a challenge for many households, and diaper access is a critical public health issue that impacts the lives and health of children and their caregivers.
Hospitals, including representatives from Bristol Health, Stamford Health, and Trinity Health Of New England highlighted the connection between diaper access and infant health, noting that improved access can help prevent common conditions and reduce avoidable healthcare visits. They urged advancement of the bill that would support partnerships to distribute diapers, such as the Diaper Connections program, which has enabled the distribution of diapers to families after screening for need in hospitals and healthcare settings.
CHA thanked hospital partners for their continued advocacy and engagement as the bill moves forward.
Read CHA’s testimony on HB 5486 here.
