U.S. Representative Lucy McBath announced on Mar. 25 the re-introduction of the Extending WIC for New Moms Act, a bill aimed at expanding eligibility for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The legislation seeks to extend postpartum WIC eligibility from six months to twenty-four months and breastfeeding eligibility from twelve months to twenty-four months. Senator Angela Alsobrooks is leading companion legislation in the Senate.
The bill is part of a broader legislative package known as the “Momnibus,” which addresses maternal health nationwide. McBath has been an advocate for these efforts alongside Black Maternal Health Caucus Co-Chair Lauren Underwood since entering Congress. Supporters say extending WIC eligibility will provide critical resources during early childhood development.
“I had always wanted to start a family and my son, Jordan, was a blessing for me and for my family. I remember how special it was to care for my infant son, and I also remember the challenges that come with bringing a newborn into our family. The peace of mind that comes with knowing you and your child have what you need makes a world of difference,” said Rep. McBath. “Without WIC, mothers, infants, and families across this country wouldn’t have access to the resources, education, and support that are so needed—especially during the first few years of a child’s life. By expanding eligibility for WIC programs, we are taking an important step in supporting our moms and setting this nation’s children up for future success.”
“WIC is a critical lifeline for families that makes pregnancies healthier and safer – but currently, moms can be cut off just months after birth,” said Rep. Underwood. “The Extending WIC for New Moms Act will extend access to essential nutrition and health care through the full postpartum and breastfeeding periods, giving moms and kids the strong start they deserve and improving health outcomes for the whole family.”
WIC provides supplemental foods, health care referrals, and nutrition education to low-income pregnant people as well as infants up to age five who are at nutritional risk. According to program data cited by supporters of the bill’s introduction in Congress earlier this week—pregnant or postpartum participants show lower rates of pregnancy-related risk factors such as preterm birth or low-birthweight infants compared with non-participants; maternal participation is also linked with reduced infant mortality rates.
In recent years there have been attempts at reducing federal funding or benefits associated with WIC: In early 2025 there was an attempted funding freeze under President Trump’s administration which was later blocked by federal courts; proposed FY2026 budgets include cuts affecting money available specifically toward fruits/vegetables within participant packages.
McBath has represented Georgia’s 7th District since replacing Karen Handel in 2019 according to official congressional records. She defeated Jeff Criswell in her most recent election by winning nearly three-quarters of votes cast as reported by The New York Times. Born in Joliet, Illinois in 1960—and now residing in Marietta—McBath graduated from Virginia State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree according to her official biography.
Nearly one hundred eighty organizations have endorsed this new measure.
