This memo explains that FNS is offering certain states the opportunity to request a short-term interview waiver. FNS recognizes that unwinding from the PHE and staffing challenges have put a continuing strain on states and is providing additional time for states to return to normal processing regarding the interview.
This memo seeks to clarify existing policy and flexibilities regarding the use of nonmerit personnel in the administration of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
This memo reiterates and clarifies existing online application policy for state agencies.
When the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency began in March 2020, FNS quickly responded by allowing state agencies to suspend requirements to conduct face-to-face interviews for QC active reviews. This flexibility was initially granted until Sept. 30, 2020, and then extended through Dec. 31, 2020. On April 30, 2021, FNS issued a memo that SNAP QC will resume nationwide starting July 2021, but provided state agencies with a blanket waiver of the QC face-to-face interview through Dec. 31, 2021.
FNS has used its authority under FFRCA to waive certain onsite monitoring requirements for the school meals programs, the Child and Adult Care Food Program, and the Summer Food Service Program, so that programs can to maintain program integrity and support social distancing while providing meals.
This memo provides information on how states can request certain SNAP COVID-19 administrative flexibilities beginning May 2021, including information pertaining to certain options allowed under the Continuing Appropriations Act 2021.
FNS waives, for all states, the requirements to serve SFSP and NSLP Seamless Summer Option meals that meet the meal pattern requirements during the public health emergency due to COVID–19. This waiver extends the Nationwide Waiver to Allow Meal Pattern Flexibility in the Summer Food Service Program – Extension 7, granted on Aug. 31, 2020, that expires on Dec. 31, 2020.
This waiver extends the nationwide waiver to Allow Parents and Guardians to Pick Up Meals for Children - Extension, granted on May 14, 2020 until Sept. 30, 2020, or for the duration of summer operations, whichever is earlier. This waiver extension applies to the NSLP Seamless Summer Option and the SFSP.
This wavier approval will allow state agencies to conduct telephone interviews in lieu of face-to-face for all QC interviews that take place from the date of issuance of this waiver through Sept. 30, 2020, regardless of the case sample month.
In FY 2020, TEFAP received a significant amount of additional funding for food purchases and administrative expenses through the Food Purchase Distribution Program and legislation in response to the novel coronavirus public health emergency.