To authorize the reimbursement by the Federal Government of State funds used to maintain participation in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children in the event of a Government shutdown.

# HR 5705 Summary **What the Bill Does** This bill would require the federal government to reimburse states if they use their own money to keep the WIC program running during a federal government shutdown. WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) provides nutrition assistance, food vouchers, nutrition education, and referrals to health services for low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and young children. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily protects WIC recipients—primarily low-income families with young children—by ensuring the program continues operating even when the federal government shuts down.

It also affects state governments, which would be reimbursed if they temporarily fund WIC operations with state money during a federal funding lapse. **Current Status** HR 5705 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill was introduced by Representative Gabe Amo (D-Rhode Island) in the 119th Congress.