Policy Memo (211.44 KB)
| DATE: | November 6, 2024 | |
| SUBJECT: | Food Distribution Programs: Improving Access and Parity Final Rule: The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) Implementation Memorandum | |
| TO: | Regional Directors Supplemental Nutrition Programs MARO, MPRO, MWRO, NERO, SERO, SWRO, and WRO | State Directors TEFAP State Agencies |
On Oct. 31, 2024, FNS published the Food Distribution Programs: Improving Access and Parity Final Rule (final rule). Through this memorandum, FNS is providing TEFAP state agencies with initial implementation guidance and implementation dates for the provisions of the final rule that pertain to TEFAP.
All TEFAP provisions in this final rule will take effect 60 days after publication on Dec. 30, 2024, and when required, most must also be implemented by Dec. 30, 2024. However, three of the rule’s TEFAP provisions have a longer implementation period and must be implemented no later than 12 months after the rule’s publication, by Oct. 31, 2025. This implementation period was established in response to comments received on the proposed rule and in recognition of the fact that these provisions will require program partners to take more action or implement a larger change in program administration.
Attachment A, “TEFAP Final Rule Provisions with Implementation Date of Dec. 30, 2024” provides initial implementation guidance for those provisions that will take effect and, when required, must be implemented 60 days after publication of the final rule. Attachment B, “TEFAP Final Rule Provisions with Implementation Date of Oct. 31, 2025” provides initial implementation guidance for those provisions that must be implemented no later than 12 months after the final rule’s publication.
FNS will provide further guidance on specific provisions in the coming months, as needed. State agencies may direct any questions to their respective FNS regional office.
Sara Olson
Director
Policy Division
Supplemental Nutrition and Safety Programs