[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 64 (Thursday, May 15, 1997)]
[House]
[Page H2686]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                WIC SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS FUNDING

  (Mrs. TAUSCHER asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mrs. TAUSCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the women, 
infants and children's program and the long-term health of the low 
income women, children and infants that this program helps. This 
program is one of the most effective social government programs that we 
have for protecting the present and future health of many of our most 
vulnerable and needy children and mothers. I applaud those Republicans 
in this House who have chosen to do the right thing and work in a 
bipartisan manner to support the 200 plus Democrats who have demanded 
full supplemental funding levels for WIC.
  The small amount of extra money to be allocated to WIC Program is a 
smart and cost-effective investment in the future of our country and 
its children. For every dollar that we invest in WIC, we save more than 
$3 in Medicaid spending and other taxpayer costs down the road. The 
transfer of funds needed to ensure full funding for the WIC Program 
will prevent some 180,000 children, 160,000 in California, from being 
put at risk.
  As the mother of a 6-year-old I know full well how important is the 
kind of nutrition and care for young children which will help them be 
ready for school and to work hard in their young lives. I support this 
WIC funding.

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