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MODERN WIC Act of 2023
3/6/2024, 4:45 AM
Summary of Bill HR 2424
The MODERN WIC Act of 2023 seeks to update and streamline the WIC program by implementing several key changes. One of the main provisions of the bill is to expand the list of eligible foods that can be purchased with WIC benefits to include more nutritious options such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Additionally, the bill aims to improve access to WIC services by allowing for online enrollment and electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, making it easier for participants to redeem their benefits at grocery stores. The bill also includes provisions to increase funding for breastfeeding support and education, as well as initiatives to promote healthy eating habits and nutrition education. Overall, the MODERN WIC Act of 2023 is designed to modernize and enhance the WIC program to better meet the needs of low-income women, infants, and children. It aims to improve access to nutritious foods, increase support for breastfeeding, and promote healthy eating habits through education and outreach efforts.
Congressional Summary of HR 2424
More Options to Develop and Enhance Remote Nutrition in WIC Act of 2023 or the MODERN WIC Act of 2023
This bill permanently allows individuals to remotely certify their eligibility for, and receive benefits through, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
Specifically, the bill allows an individual seeking a WIC certification, recertification, or a nutritional risk evaluation to do so by phone or through video teleconference, in addition to the in-person option. The bill also allows states to provide benefits on WIC electronic benefit transfer cards through mail or remote issuance instead of requiring participants to pick up or reload benefits in person at a WIC office.
The bill also reauthorizes Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) WIC funding for infrastructure, management information systems, and special nutrition education through FY2029. Specified funds must be used to establish, develop, improve, replace, or administer technology platforms that allow for secure communication between health care providers and program clinics under the program.
Further, the Department of Agriculture must report to Congress about the use of remote technologies and other digital tools in the WIC program.
Under current law, individuals are generally required to be physically present to certify their WIC eligibility and receive benefits, with exceptions. The FNS has temporarily waived these requirements and allowed remote certification and benefits using authorities that were originally provided by laws that were enacted to address the COVID-19 pandemic.
