FNS Documents & Resources

This letter describes the new statutory requirements for state agency implementation of the Food Stamp Program provisions of PL 104-193, the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. We are also providing information regarding proposed and interim rules the FCS will publish and guidance relating to the Simplified Program option, FCS waiver authority, and quality control.

This policy memo supersedes the first question in Policy Memo 86-21. The change is being made to increase flexibility in reporting in this area.

This policy memo revises Policy Memo 83-16, dated July 21, 1983 and supersedes all previous policy clarification on this same subject.

This notice reminds state agencies of the requirements of the Food Stamp Program regulations and suggests guidelines for development of standard utility and/or telephone allowances by presenting examples of some of the methodologies used by states to develop these allowances.