Press Releases

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Healthy Babies Act on Thursday, July 27. The bill expands the food options available to recipients of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, also known as “WIC,” by eliminating an unnecessary rule that bans certain infant food combinations, such as meat and vegetables, that are safely available on shelves at almost every major grocery store. This legislation would positively impact millions of infants and toddlers currently participating in WIC by making available more nutritious food options.

De La Cruz issued the following statement upon introduction:

“So often, solutions from the government intended to help Americans get mired in red tape and help no one. A rule banning certain food combinations available to WIC recipients is an example of such a government ‘solution.’ That is why I’ve introduced the Healthy Babies Act. This legislation would eliminate the restrictive rule that prohibits WIC recipients from purchasing baby food that combines meat and vegetables. We should not put limits on children in need. That is why the Healthy Babies Act does away with this draconian rule and allows families to feed their children nutritious food.”

Russell Boening, president of Texas Farm Bureau, issued the following statement in support of the Healthy Babies Act:

"Thank you to Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz for her continued leadership on the House Agriculture Committee on behalf of Texas farmers, ranchers and consumers. The Healthy Babies Act will help provide more healthy food options for families in South Texas, while also providing additional opportunities for the crops we produce."

The legislation is co-sponsored by Rep. James Moylan (R-Guam).