California launches first US program giving free diapers to every newborn

California will provide 400 free diapers per newborn at hospital discharge through a first-in-the-nation program, initially at 65–75 hospitals serving many low-income families, with plans to expand statewide. Funded by about $7.4 million last year and $12.5 million proposed for the coming year, the diapers are produced by Baby2Baby under the Golden State Start label. Medicaid does not cover newborn diapers, making this a key relief for families facing roughly $100/month diaper costs.