MODERN WIC Act of 2025

The MODERN WIC Act of 2025 aims to enhance accessibility and flexibility within the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) by amending the Child Nutrition Act of 1966. A primary provision mandates that State agencies offer WIC certification, recertification, and nutritional risk evaluations not only in-person but also through telephone or two-way, real-time interactive video technology , ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. For virtual certifications, the bill requires the collection of anthropometric data, such as height and weight, within 30 to 90 days of the appointment to evaluate nutritional risk. It also introduces a provision for interim eligibility , allowing income-eligible applicants to be temporarily certified immediately, with the full nutritional risk evaluation completed within 90 days. This aims to prevent delays in receiving vital WIC benefits. Furthermore, the legislation modernizes benefit delivery by permitting State agencies to provide food instruments, including electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, through remote issuance or mail, eliminating the need for participants to travel to local agencies. Finally, the bill directs the Secretary to submit a comprehensive report to Congress within one year, detailing the use and impact of remote technologies in WIC, including their effect on participant satisfaction and best practices for implementation.