DATE: | August 30, 2005 | |
MEMO CODE: | Reauthorization 2004: Implementation Memo: SP 17 | |
SUBJECT: | Initial Carry-over of Previous Year's Eligibility | |
TO: | Special Nutrition Programs All Regions | State Agencies Child Nutrition Programs All States |
This memo is to clarify the provision on 30 day carry-over into the next school year for free and reduced-price eligibility. Currently, the carry-over is optional as stated in 7 CFR 245 .6( c ): "... applications and documentation of direct certification from the preceding year may be used to determine eligibility only during the 30 operating days following the first operating days at the beginning of the school year, or during a time frame established by the state agency, provided that any state agency time frame does not exceed the 30 operating day limit."
Section 106 of PL 108-265, the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 added section 9(b )(9)(C) on duration of eligibility and requires that the eligibility for free or reduced price meals or free milk end "... on a date during the subsequent school year determined by the Secretary." Given the emphasis placed on prompt determinations and on ensuring access to program benefits, we will be revising the current regulations to require a carry-over of eligibility of up to 30 operating days into the subsequent school year. This applies to direct certification, categorical determinations and income applications. As in the past, a new eligibility determination in the current year supersedes the carryover eligibility. For example, if a student is determined eligible for reduced-price for the new school year benefits, the free meal eligibility from the prior school year discontinues as soon as the household is notified of the new reduced-price eligibility.
We will be codifying the carry-over requirement in a rule that will be published prior to the next school year (school year 2006-2007); so we are asking all state and local educational agencies to adopt this provision. This memo is to make you aware of the upcoming change.
If there are any questions concerning this policy, state agencies should contact their regional office.
STANLEY C. GARNETT
Director
Child Nutrition Division