Formula Freedom for Families Act

America’s infant formula market is dominated by just two companies, not because of natural competition, but because of government contracting.

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) rebate program awards exclusive state contracts to a single manufacturer at a time, locking out new entrants and granting incumbents a protected monopoly. The result is predictable: formula marked up by hundreds of percent, a fragile supply chain that collapsed during the 2022 shortage, and limited options for parents seeking higher-quality formulas free of corn syrup, added sugars, and cheap ingredients. 

The Formula Freedom for Families Act restores real competition without touching WIC’s funding or eligibility. By splitting the contract, allowing any FDA-approved manufacturer to compete for a state contract on individual item types—or letting families use a cash-value voucher on any approved brand—states can lower costs, strengthen supply resilience, and expand access to better formula for every family, regardless of income.