Extending WIC for New Moms Act
Key claim: The Extending WIC for New Moms Act would let states certify breastfeeding and postpartum women for WIC for up to 24 months after birth or pregnancy termination and require USDA to report effects on maternal/infant health, breastfeeding, and family experience.
Abstract
(HR8055 · 119th Congress) Extending WIC for New Moms Act This bill amends the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to extend the eligibility periods for breastfeeding and postpartum women. Specifically, a state program may elect to certify a breastfeeding woman for up to 24 months (currently 1 year) postpartum. The bill also expands the eligibility period for postpartum women to up to 24 months after termination of pregnancy (currently 6 months). The Department of Agriculture must submit a report to Congress evaluating the effect of these changes to the program on (1) maternal and infant health outcomes, (2) breastfeeding rates, and (3) qualitative evaluations of family experiences under WIC. Latest action (2026-03-24): Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
Why this matters
WIC is a core USDA nutrition program for low-income mothers and young children, and extending postpartum and breastfeeding certification to 24 months would keep more new mothers eligible for food benefits, nutrition counseling, and breastfeeding support during a period when many currently lose coverage. For farmers and food retailers, a larger sustained caseload marginally expands demand for WIC-authorized foods (dairy, produce, infant formula, whole grains); for consumers and public health agencies, the mandated USDA outcomes report would generate new evidence on whether longer eligibility improves maternal/infant health and breastfeeding rates.