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Family Support: Extended WIC Benefits for Children and Mothers

This act expands the WIC program, increasing the age of eligibility for children to 6 years and extending the support period for breastfeeding and postpartum mothers. This means more families can access nutritional and health assistance, potentially improving the health and development of young children. Changes are to be implemented by October 2026, with states able to request waivers under specific conditions.
Key points
Children can receive WIC nutritional support until their 6th birthday or until they attend full-day kindergarten.
Breastfeeding mothers can receive WIC support for up to 2 years postpartum, instead of the previous 1 year.
Postpartum mothers who are not breastfeeding can receive WIC support for up to 2 years postpartum, instead of the previous 6 months.
States have until October 2026 to implement these changes but can apply for waivers due to technological barriers, unaffordable operational costs, or if it's in the program's best interest.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_853
Sponsor: Sen. Casey, Robert P., Jr. [D-PA]
Process start date: 2021-03-18
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

WIC Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_853.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-03-18.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Children can receive WIC nutritional support until their 6th birthday or until they attend full-day kindergarten.
  • Breastfeeding mothers can receive WIC support for up to 2 years postpartum, instead of the previous 1 year.
  • Postpartum mothers who are not breastfeeding can receive WIC support for up to 2 years postpartum, instead of the previous 6 months.
  • States have until October 2026 to implement these changes but can apply for waivers due to technological barriers, unaffordable operational costs, or if it's in the program's best interest.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Casey, Robert P., Jr. [D-PA].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Benefits Family Health