H.R. 1464: More Options to Develop and Enhance Remote Nutrition in WIC Act of 2025

This bill, known as the "More Options to Develop and Enhance Remote Nutrition in WIC Act of 2025" (or "MODERN WIC Act of 2025"), proposes amendments to the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to allow for greater flexibility in how individuals can be certified for participation in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).

Key Provisions of the Bill

1. Video and Telephone Certifications

The bill allows for certifications, recertifications, and nutritional risk evaluations for WIC program participants to occur through:

• In-person appointments
• Telephone communications
• Video technology that supports two-way, real-time interactions
• Other methods approved by the Secretary of Health and Human Services

Any format used must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. If virtual methods are used for certifications, state agencies must collect necessary nutritional data within specific time frames.

2. Interim Eligibility

The bill allows state agencies to temporarily certify applicants who meet the income eligibility requirements before completing their nutritional risk evaluations. This interim certification ensures that applicants receive benefits without delay, while evaluations must be completed within 90 days.

3. Remote Issuance of Benefits

State agencies will be permitted to issue benefits such as food instruments through various methods that do not require participants to physically attend a local agency. This can include:

• Mailing food instruments
• Remote issuance through electronic means

4. Reporting Requirements

Within one year of the bill's enactment, the Secretary will need to report to Congress on the implementation of remote technologies in the WIC program. This report should cover:

• The use of remote technologies and digital tools for certifications and support services
• The impact of these technologies on participant satisfaction and program efficiency
• Best practices for utilizing remote tools to enhance program access and service delivery

5. Technical Amendments

Minor technical changes will be made to the existing legislation to align with the new provisions outlined in this bill.

Relevant Companies

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