SRES-692-119
Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S2076-2077; text: CR S2083)
Sponsored by Chuck Grassley (R-IA)
What it does
This resolution designates the week of April 20 through April 24, 2026, as "National Home Visiting Week." It is a commemorative resolution only — it does not create, modify, or fund any program, and it does not carry the force of law. The Senate passed it by unanimous consent.
Who benefits
Organizations and advocates involved in home visiting programs (such as nurse-family partnerships and early childhood development services) gain symbolic federal recognition. Families who use home visiting services may benefit from increased public awareness. Program administrators may use the designation for outreach and fundraising purposes.
Who is hurt
No group is directly or materially harmed by this resolution. There are no regulatory, fiscal, or legal obligations created.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that home visiting programs have a well-documented evidence base — studies such as the MIECHV program evaluations show measurable improvements in maternal and child health outcomes, including reduced preterm births and improved school readiness. They contend that a national recognition week raises public awareness and encourages broader participation in programs that serve vulnerable families who might otherwise lack access to health and developmental support.
Opponents argue
Opponents might argue that symbolic resolutions consume limited legislative floor time without producing tangible policy outcomes, and that families who rely on home visiting programs would be better served by direct funding increases or expanded program eligibility. They contend that designating awareness weeks can create the appearance of action while deferring harder legislative decisions about program authorization and appropriations levels.