WIC Reauthorization
This article was originally published in The Tan Sheet
Executive Summary
HR 3874, reauthorizing the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants & Children through 2003, passes House July 20 in a 383-1 vote with 50 not voting. In language identical to that included in several appropriations bills, the bill requires state WIC agencies to award procurement contracts to manufacturers based on the lowest net price, equal to the wholesale price less the rebate offered by the manufacturer, unless retail prices for the products vary by 5% or less in the state. The legislation also reauthorizes other federal nutrition programs. The WIC bill was introduced by Rep. Michael Castle (R-Del.) May 14, and passed committee June 4 ("The Tan Sheet" June 15, p. 14). With the Senate's August recess scheduled to begin Aug. 1, the WIC reauthorization measure will not see action in the upper house until at least September...