This is a reinstatement, with changes, of a previously approved information collection that was discontinued on 12/31/2022. This data collection effort for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children Participant and Program Characteristics Study.
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, this notice invites the general public and other public agencies to comment on this proposed information collection.
USDA announces adjusted income eligibility guidelines to be used by state agencies in determining the income eligibility of persons applying to participate in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). These income eligibility guidelines are to be used in conjunction with the WIC regulations.
The federal regulations governing the WIC program require that certain program-related information be collected and that full and complete records concerning WIC operations are maintained.
This rulemaking serves to amend WIC program regulations by incorporating provisions of the Access to Baby Formula Act of 2022 and making related amendments.
This information collection is requesting a revision in the burden hours due to program changes resulting from FMNP state agencies transitioning from paper coupon systems to electronic benefit systems, as well as one existing requirement that has been in use without PRA approval.
The information collected will be used to evaluate components of existing breastfeeding programs and support within WIC local agencies, to recognize local WIC agencies that provide exemplary breastfeeding programs and support services, and to provide examples of model programs to motivate local agencies and clinics to strengthen their breastfeeding promotion and support activities.
USDA FNS is proposing to add a new system of records, entitled USDA/FNS–13, Mercury, which is a Consumer Off the Shelf workflow system designed to automate the correspondence tracking and management process within FNS.
USDA has legislative authority to grant waivers to WIC and FMNP state agencies. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 grants temporary waiver authority to WIC and WIC FMNP for the purpose of outreach, modernization, and innovation and The Access to Baby Formula Act of 2022 grants permanent waiver authority to WIC during certain emergencies and supply chain disruptions. This information collection request covers activities associated with the waiver request process.
This agenda provides summary descriptions of significant and not significant regulations being developed in FNS.