Texas Border Business
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The Trump administration is evaluating policy options to increase the national birth rate following a continued decline in U.S. fertility.
According to data released in 2024, the U.S. fertility rate dropped to 54.5 births per 1,000 women aged 15–44 in 2023, the lowest level recorded. This is less than half of the 1957 peak of 122.9.
A $5,000 baby bonus per child has been proposed as a financial incentive to encourage childbirth. A revision of Fulbright scholarship eligibility is under discussion. One proposal suggests reserving up to 30 percent of awards for married applicants with children. Federal infrastructure funding priorities may also be adjusted to favor regions with higher birth and marriage rates, as Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated.
On January 29, 2025, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy issued an Order announcing that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) would prioritize issuing grants, loans, and contracts to communities with “marriage and birth rates higher than the national average.” Source: https://www.wiley.law/alert-DOT-Order-Links-Federal-Transportation-Funds-to-Marriage-and-Birth-Rates?utm_source=chatgpt.com
The White House is preparing a report on in vitro fertilization access and fertility treatments. This report is expected to outline policy considerations related to infertility. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, has published commentary and recommendations addressing declining fertility and related family policies. Emma Waters, a fellow at the foundation, has called for increased attention to infertility issues.
In February 2025, President Trump stated during a public appearance that he aimed to be the “fertilization president” regarding policy efforts to promote higher birth rates.
The U.S. birth rate has declined for decades, with notable decreases since 2007. Several government agencies and advisory groups are considering demographic and policy responses.
No legislation related to these measures has been passed as of this report.
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