Oppose Cuts to WIC Food Benefits for Families

As grocery prices remain high, the House has narrowly passed a FY 2027 Agriculture appropriations bill that would cut $200 million in funding from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). WIC helps millions of pregnant and postpartum people and young children access nutritious food, breastfeeding support, and nutrition education.

Experts warn that the funding shortfall could force WIC to turn away eligible families for the first time in nearly 30 years. The bill would reduce fruit and vegetable benefits by an estimated $141 million for more than five million participants nationwide, making it more difficult for families to afford healthy food during pregnancy and critical stages of childhood development.

Republicans point to “lowered participation” to justify maintaining current funding levels. But experts note that the USDA enrollment data being cited is from the first quarter of the fiscal year, when the fall government shutdown caused a decrease in program enrollment. WIC enrollment has generally increased in recent years, and rising grocery prices often push more eligible families to seek assistance.

At a time when many families are already struggling with the cost of groceries, Congress should strengthen programs that support family health, not cut them.