Moulton Backs Legislation to Protect WIC Funding During Government Shutdowns

WASHINGTON, DC - Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06) is a proud original co-sponsor of the WIC Benefits Protection Act, which would safeguard the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) from disruptions during a government shutdown.

WIC provides essential nutrition services to more than 500,000 pregnant women and nearly 40 percent of all infants in the United States each year. Each month, more than 6.7 million participants, including postpartum and breastfeeding women, rely on WIC for science-based, healthy food benefits. In Fiscal Year 2023, the program’s caseload rose by 5 percent, from 6.4 million to 6.7 million participants, demonstrating the growing need to fully fund WIC without delay or uncertainty.

The WIC Benefits Protection Act would convert WIC from a discretionary to a mandatory program, meaning funding would be based on eligibility and benefit criteria rather than the annual appropriations process. This change would guarantee that every eligible mother, infant, and young child receives the benefits and services they need, without the risk of being put on waitlists or going without support during funding lapses.

“It’s essential that WIC funding is guaranteed,” said Congressman Moulton. “WIC is a lifeline for millions of women and children, including 119,000 people here in Massachusetts. That’s why I am a proud original co-sponsor of the WIC Benefits Protection Act to protect WIC from congressional dysfunction.”

Congressman Moulton also co-sponsored the CARE for WIC During Shutdowns Act, which would allow states to be reimbursed for any shortfall in federal WIC funding during a government shutdown. Additionally, he continues to advocate for strong annual support for WIC and has requested $7.7 million in funding for the program this year.

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