WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senate leaders released bill text for a continuing resolution that would fund federal agencies at current levels through November 17. This would prevent a government shutdown that could jeopardize benefits for millions of women, infants and children eligible for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC).
The following is a statement from Kate Franken, board chair of the National WIC Association, regarding ongoing negotiations in Congress over funding the federal government.
“The National WIC Association urges Congress to swiftly pass the continuing resolution introduced in the Senate that would provide urgently needed resources for WIC to ensure no eligible individual is turned away from the program. This bipartisan bill would avoid the worst-case scenario for WIC participants — a federal government shutdown that could lead to waiting lists and benefit cuts. While this is a good first step, additional investment is needed to ensure WIC can continue to serve all eligible participants in fiscal year 2024. Nearly seven million women and young children depend on WIC for essential health and nutrition supports. Congress can do right by them by passing the continuing resolution and then fully funding WIC in full-year appropriations legislation.”