A bill creating a novel public campaign to increase awareness of the importance of fatherhood for the adequate formation of children has been proposed in the US Senate by Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL).
The bill cites several scientific findings, such as physical contact between father and newborn son immediately following birth improving the child’s health, to justify the awareness campaign.
Other findings cited include lessened likelihood mothers will suffer from postpartum disorders and increased probabilities newborn children will survive through infancy.
If passed, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will lead the campaign and also encourage states to educate maternity care providers on the benefits of actively involved fathers.
Senator Rubio explained the scientific studies cited prompted the bill’s proposal, which is cosponsored by Democrat Senato Raphael Warnock (GA).
“Involved fathers are pillars of strength in our families, embodying resilience, guidance, and unconditional love,” said Rubio. “The Dads Matter Act would promote father engagement and lay the foundation for a stronger, more compassionate society.”
Absent fathers have been estimated to cost American taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars given the numerous welfare programs installed to support families abandoned by the father.
According to the Dads Resource Center, absent fathers cost the US nearly $270 billion.
The National Fatherhood Initiative (NFI) reports almost one in every four children grow up without a father figure in their homes.
The consequences for the children who mature without a father figure are abysmal, as, per NFI, they are more likely to suffer poverty, be incarcerated, and suffer from substance abuse.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) will produce a report on the effectiveness of the bill within six years of its passage.
