Representatives Rich McCormick (GA-07), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Johnny Olszewski (MD-02), and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) have introduced the Global Child Thrive Reauthorization Act of 2025, which would strengthen policies advancing early childhood development internationally.
The bipartisan bill reauthorizes the Global Child Thrive Act of 2020, a landmark piece of legislation enacted in early 2021, and strengthens the prioritization of supporting early childhood development in foreign assistance.
Also known as HR 3647, this bill requires the Secretary of State to appoint a new Special Advisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children. This Special Advisor would coordinate all United States foreign assistance programs for orphans and vulnerable children.
This position has traditionally resided at the United States Agency for International Development and is currently unfilled. HR 3647 would also require the Special Advisor to issue new guidelines in implementing the Global Child Thrive Act of 2020.
Rep. McCormick expressed pride in being able to support this bill and asserted that this would enhance America’s role in protecting vulnerable children across the world.
“By extending this program for another six years and establishing a Special Advisor to oversee it, we are making a smart investment that promotes stability and delivers a strong return for American taxpayers,” McCormick added. “I am grateful for the ongoing bipartisan support this initiative has received since it was first championed by leaders like Senator Marco Rubio.”
The main sponsor of this bill, Rep. Castro, thanked the cosponsors of HR 3647 for working to support the physical, psychological, and emotional health of children worldwide.
“The early years of childhood are crucial, and U.S. foreign assistance programs provide critical support,” Castro stated. “Thank you to my colleagues for their efforts in supporting these important policies.”
I'm proud to introduce the bipartisan Global Child Thrive Reauthorization Act of 2025 with @RepMcCormick, @RepJohnnyO and @RepBrianFitz, which helps nurture and support vulnerable children around the world.
Thank you to @AmerAcadPeds, @Campaign4Kids, @SPOONFoundation and… pic.twitter.com/JuUDaRWtqV
— Joaquin Castro (@JoaquinCastrotx) December 2, 2025
