Millions of Children, Mothers Could Face Food Aid Cut Under Bill
Summary
The House of Representatives passed a bill that would reduce funding for a nutrition program helping low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. The bill cuts benefits for fresh fruits and vegetables and now moves to the Senate for further approval.Key Facts
- The House passed the 2027 Agriculture and Food appropriations bill by a narrow vote of 213-210.
- The bill would reduce funding for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
- WIC helps low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age five with approved foods and nutrition support.
- The bill targets cuts to the fruit and vegetable benefits in WIC, reducing them by about 10 percent.
- Around 5.4 million people enrolled in WIC could lose about $141 million in benefits.
- House Republicans mostly supported the bill, arguing that $8 billion in funding is enough due to lower participation this year.
- Democrats opposed the bill, saying it would hurt vulnerable families during a time of rising grocery prices.
- The bill must still be approved by the Senate before it can become law.
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