Press Releases

U.S. Representatives Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) and Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) introduced the White House Council on Fathers and Sons Act of 2026, legislation establishing a council responsible for coordinating efforts across agencies to address challenges facing fathers and young men. The council would promote the involvement of fathers in families, help address rising mental health challenges among males, and support the development of programs that help young men develop successfully into adulthood. 

“For too long, our society has stood by as young men fall behind in our classrooms and fatherhood becomes increasingly absent in too many families and communities,” said Congressman Moran. “This legislation is necessary to acknowledge that—in addition to the important role that mothers play—strong men are needed to raise strong families. This intentional acknowledgement of the federal government of the important role that fathers play in the institution of the family, will change generations to come for the better—for everyone.” 

“Today, too many fathers and sons face challenges that threaten the stability of our families and communities,” said Congressman Van Orden. “From declining educational attainment and stagnant wages to rising mental health struggles, men and boys are being left behind. This legislation takes a practical step toward addressing those issues by bringing federal agencies together to support effective programs and opportunities that will ensure that young men and fathers across our nation have the guidance they need to succeed. Strong men build strong families, and strong families build a stronger America.”

Background: 

Today, men and boys—both fathers and sons—are facing more hardships than ever before. Fewer college degrees are now being awarded to men than women, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Men are now earning less per week than they were in 1979, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. Men and boys are struggling with pressures and issues not faced by previous generations and are paying with their lives. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide rates among men and boys has risen steadily between 2001-2021. In 2021, the suicide rate among males was 4 times higher (22.8 per 100,000) than among females (5.7 per 100,000). To make matters worse, according to Richard V. Reeves’ book Of Boys and Men, we know public programs aimed at today’s youth, both boys and girls, are not adequately reaching boys in their impact. 

Under the bill, leaders from major federal departments—including Health and Human Services, Education, Labor, and Veterans Affairs—would participate in the council to coordinate solutions and review programs affecting fathers and sons. The council would also consult with state and local governments, nonprofit organizations, and faith-based institutions to identify effective strategies and share best practices to promote the important role of men in the institution of the family instead of diluting it. 

If enacted, the council would provide periodic reports to the President outlining federal programs affecting fathers and sons and recommending ways to strengthen family support nationwide.

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