Nutrition Continuity for Military Families Act of 2026

Notification of WIC Eligibility: Under section 2(a), the Secretary of Defense must notify certain service members undergoing a permanent change of station about their potential eligibility for WIC. This is positive because it helps ensure that eligible military families are aware of nutrition benefits available to them.

Verification of Certification Cards: Under section 2(b), State agencies are required to issue Verification of Certification cards to covered members of the armed forces at certification or recertification. This is positive because it gives families a clear record of their certification status.

Presumptive Eligibility During a Move: Under section 2(b), when a covered service member participates in WIC and undergoes a permanent change of station, State agencies must treat that individual and their family members as presumptively eligible for WIC and provide a card effective until the current certification period expires. This is positive because it prevents families from losing food benefits simply because they moved to a new duty station.

On-Base WIC Information Offices: Under section 2(c), the Secretary of Defense must ensure that each military installation is staffed at least 3 days per week by appropriate military personnel to provide WIC information. This is positive because it gives service members convenient, local access to help and information regarding these nutrition programs.