Policy memo (271.63 KB)
| DATE: | April 15, 2024 |
| SUBJECT: | WIC and FMNP: Available Expedited ARPA Waivers and Request Process |
| TO: | All FNS Regional Office Supplemental Nutrition and Safety Programs Directors All WIC State Agencies All WIC FMNP State Agencies |
This letter provides information to Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) state agencies and WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) state agencies on available American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (PL 117-2; ARPA) waivers and a new state agency request process. These waivers will support state agency efforts to develop and test innovative and modern ideas intended to increase WIC and FMNP enrollment and retention, redemption of benefits, and equity in program access in accordance with the waiver authority provided to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) through ARPA.
To support state agencies as they work to improve the customer experience for all applicants and participants, FNS has developed and launched an expedited ARPA waiver request process for a set of waiver topics (see attachment). State agencies can visit the ARPA WIC and FMNP State Agency Waiver Request site to request a waiver using the new process. Both the process and waivers were designed based on extensive feedback from state agencies. The process will be continually improved as additional feedback is received after launch. Additional waivers may also be added to this request process at a later date.
State agencies must adhere to each of their waivers’ caveats, conditions, and expiration date. When necessary to reflect current program operations, state agencies are required to update their state plans, policies, and procedures. Waivers become effective when FNS sends a waiver approval notice to the state agency.
We encourage all state agencies to consider this waiver opportunity, which will be available through Sept. 13, 2024, to allow for processing by the close of the fiscal year. FNS appreciates state agencies’ commitment to modernizing WIC and FMNP and is eager to learn how service delivery has improved nationwide. State agencies should reach out to their respective regional offices with any questions.
Sincerely,
| Sara L. Olson Director, Policy Division Supplemental Nutrition and Safety Programs | Amy M. Herring Director, Office of Innovation Supplemental Nutrition and Safety Programs |