S. 3842: 21st Century WIC Act of 2026

This bill, known as the 21st Century WIC Act of 2026, aims to update and amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 with specific enhancements for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The key provisions of the bill include:

Enhanced Certification Options

The bill allows individuals applying for WIC certification to choose from multiple methods for their appointments. These methods include:

• In-person consultations
• Telephone appointments
• Video technology that enables two-way, real-time communication
• Other formats that support real-time communication as determined by the Secretary of Agriculture

Nutrition Risk Evaluations

If a participant opts for a non-in-person method, state agencies are required to:

• Plan to collect necessary nutritional risk data within 30 days of the appointment.
• Complete data collection no later than 90 days following the appointment.

The bill also allows temporary eligibility for applicants meeting income standards while awaiting a nutritional risk evaluation, allowing immediate participation in the program with further evaluations to follow.

Remote Benefit Issuance

This legislation enables state agencies to issue benefits remotely, allowing procedures such as:

• Mailing food instruments (like vouchers) or using remote issuance methods.
• Ensuring participants do not need to travel to a local agency to receive benefits.

Reporting Requirements

Within a year of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of Agriculture must provide a report to Congress. This report will cover:

• The use of remote technologies in certifying eligible individuals for program services.
• The provision of nutrition education and breastfeeding support through electronic means.
• Impact assessments on participant satisfaction and certification processes.
• Best practices for utilizing remote technologies in program operations.

Compliance with Accessibility Standards

All appointment formats available under the bill must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other relevant accessibility legislation.

Technical Amendments

The bill includes updates to ensure clarity and consistency in the language of relevant sections of the Child Nutrition Act of 1966.

Conclusion

The bill seeks to modernize the WIC program by integrating technology into the certification process and improving access for eligible participants through various remote methods.

Relevant Companies

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