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Higgins announces action & resources to improve access to baby formula

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Fri, May 20th 2022 10:15 am

Congressman Brian Higgins announced action by the House of Representatives and the president to improve access to baby formula.

“New parents should never have to worry about where or when they can find food for their babies,” he said. “To have families struggling with a shortfall of available formula is gut-wrenching. Immediate action is necessary and underway to help parents provide for and protect the health and safety of their children.”

The shortage comes following a recall by Abbott Nutrition that pulled some formulas including Similac, Alimentum and EleCare, manufactured at a plant in Michigan, from store shelves across the country.

Action underway:

√ This week, Higgins voted to approve the Access to Baby Formula Act (HR7791), which provides greater flexibility in allowing mothers participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to use the program’s benefits to access safe infant formula.

√ Higgins also supported emergency funding to support urgent action by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to improve access and prevent unsafe formula from entering the marketplace.

√ President Joe Biden has invoked the Defense Production Act, expediting U.S. production of formula.

√ The administration has also announced “Operation Fly Formula” authorizing the military to collect infant formula from other countries to speed the availability of formula bypassing slower traditional supply chains.

Resources for families:

√ The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services launched a website with formula manufacturer hotlines and other resources for families who have questions or are having trouble accessing formula. Visit www.hhs.gov/formula.

√ Residents can also call 2-1-1 to be connected to community resources.

√ Parents are encouraged to consult with their primary doctor or pediatrician with questions or concerns.

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