Keep WIC Working Act
Keep WIC Working Act
Plain Language Summary
# Keep WIC Working Act Summary **What it does:** This bill ensures the federal government can continue funding the WIC program (Women, Infants, and Children nutrition assistance) if there's a gap in regular government funding during fiscal year 2026. It also reimburses states that used their own money to keep WIC running during any funding lapse that began on September 30, 2025. **Who it affects:** The bill protects roughly 6 million low-income women, infants, and children who rely on WIC for nutrition assistance, as well as state agencies administering the program. WIC provides food benefits, nutrition education, and referrals to health services for eligible families. **Current status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House.
It was introduced by Rep. Robert Bresnahan (R-PA) and addresses a practical concern about maintaining essential nutrition services during funding transitions.
CRS Official Summary
Keep WIC Working ActThis bill provides appropriations for the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to carry out the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) during any lapse in FY2026 discretionary appropriations for USDA. WIC provides nutrition-rich foods, nutrition education, and health care and social services referrals to eligible low-income women, infants, and children.The bill also provides appropriations for USDA to reimburse state agencies for any state funds used to carry out operations necessary to maintain participation in WIC during the period that began on September 30, 2025, and ends on the date that this bill is enacted.The appropriations provided by this bill are available until legislation is enacted that provides FY2026 appropriations for USDA (including continuing appropriations for USDA).
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Appropriations.