0
0

To amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to extend certain certification periods for the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children, and for other purposes.

12/31/2022, 5:07 AM

Summary of Bill HR 4455

Bill 117 HR 4455, also known as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Certification Extension Act, aims to amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to extend certain certification periods for the WIC program. The WIC program provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, and healthcare referrals to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and young children.

The bill proposes to extend the certification periods for participants in the WIC program, allowing eligible individuals to receive benefits for a longer period of time without the need for re-certification. This extension aims to reduce administrative burdens on participants and program administrators, ensuring that vulnerable populations have continued access to essential nutrition support.

In addition to extending certification periods, the bill includes provisions for other purposes related to the WIC program. These may include updates to program guidelines, funding allocations, or other administrative changes to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the program. Overall, Bill 117 HR 4455 seeks to support the health and well-being of women, infants, and children by extending certification periods for the WIC program and making other necessary adjustments to ensure the program continues to effectively serve those in need.

Congressional Summary of HR 4455

This bill makes changes to enrollment processes and other aspects of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).

Under current law, an individual who participates in Medicaid and other specified means-tested programs automatically meets applicable income eligibility for WIC. The bill extends this automatic income eligibility to participants in Head Start programs, certain nutrition programs (e.g., the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations), and the Children's Health Insurance Program. It also extends income eligibility to individuals who reside in a household in which a member receives assistance from such a program.

Other changes in the bill include (1) allowing states to certify a child's eligibility for WIC for up to two years, and (2) requiring states to address benefits for infants and children under the care of kinship families in WIC plans.

Current Status of Bill HR 4455

Bill HR 4455 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since July 16, 2021. Bill HR 4455 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on July 16, 2021.  Bill HR 4455's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Education and Labor. as of July 16, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 4455

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
16
Democrat Cosponsors
14
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 4455

Primary Policy Focus

Agriculture and Food

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 4455

To amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to extend certain certification periods for the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children, and for other purposes.
To amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to extend certain certification periods for the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children, and for other purposes.

Comments