New mothers on WIC (the federal nutrition program for women, infants, and children) would stay eligible for benefits for up to two years after giving birth, instead of the current six months. Breastfeeding support through WIC would also extend from one year to two years. The USDA would be required to report to Congress on how the longer coverage affects maternal and infant health outcomes, including any changes in racial and ethnic health disparities. Roughly 6 million people participate in WIC, and this change is aimed at closing a gap where new moms often lose food assistance right when they still need it.
Congressional Summary
Extending WIC for New Moms ActThis bill amends the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to extend the eligibility periods for breastfeeding and postpartum women.Specifically, a state program may elect to certify a breastfeeding woman for up to 24 months (currently 1 year) postpartum. The bill also expands the eligibility period for postpartum women to up to 24 months after termination of pregnancy (currently 6 months).The Department of Agriculture must submit a report to Congress evaluating the effect of these changes to the program on (1) maternal and infant health outcomes, (2) breastfeeding rates, and (3) qualitative evaluations of family experiences under WIC.
Details
- Congress
- 119th
- Chamber
- House
- Status
- summarized
- Action
- Introduced in House
- Action Date
- 2026-03-24
- Date Added
- 2026-04-16