This report examines mothers’ concerns about heavy metals and other contaminants in baby and toddler food, drawing on a national survey conducted in collaboration with the Clean Label Project. Nearly 1,000 mothers across the U.S. shared how they assess infant food safety, their awareness of legislative efforts such as California’s AB 899, and where they seek trusted information. Findings show widespread concern about food contaminants, strong support for transparency and regulation, and a notable gap between mothers’ concern and their awareness of existing policy initiatives.

In October 2024, Count on Mothers surveyed 709 mothers across 48 states and the political spectrum to understand views on the Safe School Meals Act, introduced in the Senate in September 2024. Mothers shared firsthand perspectives on school meal nutrition, food safety standards, and key provisions of the bill, including limits on heavy metals, pesticide residues, food additives, and toxic packaging. Findings were analyzed to assess the level of alignment across demographics and to identify the provisions mothers view as most critical for protecting children’s health.

In September 2024, Count on Mothers surveyed 669 mothers across 46 states and the political spectrum to understand their views and firsthand experiences with public schools. The study examined school enrollment patterns, levels of trust and satisfaction, interest in switching school types, and the factors driving declines in public school enrollment. Findings highlight strong overall participation in and trust toward public schools, alongside persistent concerns—particularly related to bullying, safety, and accountability.

In August 2024, Count on Mothers surveyed 800 mothers across 47 states and the political spectrum to assess views on two bipartisan childcare bills: the Childcare Availability and Affordability Act and the Childcare Workforce Act. Mothers shared firsthand experiences with childcare costs, tax credits, and flexible spending accounts (FSAs), and evaluated which policy solutions would most effectively support their families. Findings were analyzed to inform policymakers on which components mothers believe would meaningfully improve childcare access, affordability, and family stability.