H.R.1813 - To amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to set maximum monthly allowances for milk under the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1813 aims to amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 by setting maximum monthly allowances for milk provided under the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The bill specifies the maximum quarts of milk allowed for different food packages within the WIC program. It was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 3, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce.
The bill seeks to provide clarity and potentially control costs associated with milk allowances in the WIC program. By setting specific limits, the bill intends to ensure consistent application of the program guidelines across different regions.
This could affect the nutritional benefits received by WIC recipients and the overall cost-effectiveness of the program.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of H.R.1813 would be to standardize and cap the amount of milk provided to WIC recipients based on their specific food package. This could lead to more predictable program costs and potentially reduce instances of over-allocation of milk benefits.
However, it could also result in some recipients receiving less milk than they currently do, depending on local practices and individual needs. The change aims to create a more uniform distribution of resources.
Ultimately, the impact will depend on how the set maximums align with the actual nutritional needs of the WIC recipients and the current distribution practices.
Potential Benefits
- Cost Control: Setting maximum allowances can help control program costs by preventing excessive milk distribution.
- Standardization: Ensures uniform application of WIC benefits across different states and regions.
- Resource Allocation: Allows for better planning and allocation of resources within the WIC program.
- Reduced Waste: Could potentially reduce waste if current allowances exceed actual consumption needs.
- Focus on Other Nutrients: May encourage a greater focus on diversifying the nutritional intake of WIC recipients beyond milk.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Reduced Flexibility: Limits the ability to tailor benefits to individual needs, potentially harming those with higher milk requirements.
- Potential Undernourishment: Some recipients may not receive enough milk to meet their nutritional needs, especially in cases of dietary restrictions or specific health conditions.
- Administrative Burden: Implementing and monitoring the new maximum allowances could create additional administrative burden for WIC agencies.
- Negative Impact on Dairy Farmers: Reduced demand for milk through the WIC program could negatively impact dairy farmers.
- Public Perception: May be perceived negatively by the public if it appears to reduce benefits for vulnerable populations.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution (Preamble), as it aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of a nutrition program designed to support vulnerable populations. Congress has the power to legislate in areas concerning the general welfare, including providing for the health and well-being of its citizens.
However, the specific details of the bill's implementation and its potential impact on individual rights and liberties would need to be carefully considered to ensure full constitutional compliance. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific rights enumerated in the Constitution or its amendments.
Overall, the bill seems to fall within the scope of Congress's legislative authority, provided it is implemented in a manner that does not unduly burden or discriminate against any particular group.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).