Parents are facing a crisis nationwide, and Governor Youngkin has issued a statement, ensuring that he is working with authorities to get resources into the hands of parents as soon as possible.
Baby formula is facing a shortage across the country. A report from Fox News claims that the nationwide supply decreasing 40% since April, with the White House saying it’s working “24/7” to address the formula shortage.
According to WTOP, the problem is the result of supply chain disruptions and a safety recall, and has had a cascade of effects: Retailers are limiting what customers can buy, and doctors and health workers are urging parents to contact food banks or physicians’ offices, in addition to warning against watering down formula to stretch supplies or using online DIY recipes.
The shortage is weighing particularly on lower-income families after the recall by formula maker Abbott, stemming from contamination concerns. The recall wiped out many brands covered by WIC, a federal program like food stamps that serves women, infants, and children, though the program now permits brand substitutes.
Governor Glenn Youngkin made the following statement on the nationwide baby formula shortage:
“My administration remains engaged with industry leaders on their production capabilities, and the Virginia Department of Heath is working to ensure that there are adequate supplies of baby formula statewide. Additionally, my administration has asked the FDA to utilize all resources to get the U.S. plant back into production as quickly as possible. Simply put, acquiring baby formula shouldn’t be a challenge in the United States.”
Other Republicans on Capitol Hill have criticized the Biden administration for a lack of action on the baby formula issue. House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., and Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-Iowa demanded to know the administration’s plan in a letter to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf on Tuesday.
“We write today to express great concern with the ongoing shortage of infant formula across the United States,” they wrote. “As moms ourselves, we know the stress this is causing in so many households.”
“This has caused panic in communities across the country, as popular stores turn to rationing formula to make their stock last. Parents should never be in a position of not knowing where to procure formula for their babies. Frankly, these empty shelves are unacceptable. Families deserve better,” the letter continued.
With Youngkin working directly with officials, hopefully the supply chain issues can be resolved, and parents can get their children the formula they need.