Action: Last week, the Administration redirected $300 million in unspent tariff revenue from FY2025 to the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). WIC was at risk of running out of funding this month because of the government shutdown, which occurred just before the program was slated to receive its annual appropriation. The $300 million is expected to keep the program operating for the next several weeks. But using tariff revenue for this purpose is controversial, particularly if the Administration is planning other uses for tariff funding as the shutdown continues.

WIC helps an estimated 6.7 million low-income mothers, young children, and expectant parents to purchase nutritious staples such as fruits and vegetables, low-fat milk, and infant formula. In addition to nutrition, WIC provides education, counseling, and referral services to healthcare and social services. The Federal government funds WIC through USDA, while the states administer it. An estimated 40% of all infants in the US benefit from the program.

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