| DATE: | August 4, 2017 |
| POLICY MEMO: | 2014 Farm Bill |
| SUBJECT: | Cooperation with Program Research and Evaluation |
| TO: | Regional Directors Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program All Regions |
The Agricultural Act of 2014 (2014 Farm Bill) (PL 113-79) clarifies requirements for participation in evaluations and research in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The purpose of this memorandum is to provide guidance on the implementation of this provision.
Section 4023 of the Farm Bill amends section 17 of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (7 USC 2026) to clarify that states, state agencies, local agencies, institutions, facilities such as data consortiums, and contractors participating in programs authorized under the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended, are required to cooperate with U.S. Department of Agriculture officials and contractors conducting evaluations and studies and submit information in the time and manner required.
Regional offices are asked to share this guidance with the state agencies.
State agencies should direct any questions concerning this guidance to the appropriate FNS regional office.
Jeffrey N. Cohen
Acting Associate Administrator
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program