A bill to amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to permit video or telephone certifications under the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children, and for other purposes.
Summary
This bill would modify the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to expand how families can apply for and certify eligibility in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Currently, WIC certification typically requires in-person visits to local agencies. If enacted, this bill would permit applicants to complete certifications through video or telephone instead, potentially making the program more accessible to families who face barriers to in-person appointments due to work schedules, transportation limitations, or other constraints.
The practical effect would be to streamline the WIC application and recertification process for eligible families with young children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers. By allowing remote certification options, the bill could reduce administrative burden on both applicants and WIC agencies. The bill is currently in the Senate and has been referred to committee for consideration but has not yet been voted on by the full chamber.