According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the federal government plans to continue to allow families who use nutrition benefits to afford baby formula to have an expanded range of options when they go to the grocery store. This means that families who buy formula through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women Infants and Children, or WIC, will now be able to buy substitutes for their regular formula through December 31st or 60 days after their state emergency declaration ends, whichever is the earliest. The government had set this flexibility to expire at the end of September.

Why The Change?

This change comes as a result of baby formula shortages across the country. Because of this shortage, many WIC families have had difficulty affording and accessing formula for their infants. The USDA has decided to extend these waivers and rebates to ensure that these families still have access to the nutrition they need.

What Does This Mean For WIC Families?

This extension will allow WIC families more flexibility in choosing which formula they purchase for their infants. Previously, WIC families could only purchase specific baby formula brands with vouchers. However, under this extension, WIC families will now be able to turn in any unused portion of their previous formula voucher for a rebate and substitute their current vouchers for other brands of infant formulas.

What Else Should I Know?

If you are a WIC participant, you should contact your state or local WIC agency for more information on how this extension could impact you. You can find your state’s WIC office here.

The USDA’s decision to extend the waivers and rebates for WIC families affected by the baby formula shortage is a positive step in ensuring that these families have access to the nutrition they need. However, it is important to note that this extension is only temporary and that WIC participants should contact their state or local WIC office for more information on how this may impact them.