This rule codifies a new framework for determining distinct staple food varieties for meeting staple food stocking requirements for retailer participation in SNAP. 

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 for the Food Price Data Collection in the Non-Contiguous States and U.S. Territories Study. This is a new information collection request.

This rule proposes to codify a new framework for determining distinct staple food varieties and accessory foods for purposes of meeting the staple food requirements for retailer participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. 

FNS does not tolerate fraud, waste, or abuse in any of its programs, including among retailers that participate in SNAP. FNS monitors SNAP-authorized retailers and transaction data and investigates potential concerns as illustrated in this SNAP infographic highlighting retailer oversight.

SNAP healthy incentive programs encourage healthy eating by making nutritious food more accessible and affordable through coupons, discounts, gift cards, bonus items, or extra funds.

The final rule, titled “Enhancing Retailer Standards in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program,” made several changes to requirements for stores that want to accept SNAP benefits as a form of payment. These changes support healthy lifestyles for SNAP recipients while maintaining recipients’ access to food. 

FNS is issuing this affirmation of a final rule, without change, of an interim rule that amended SNAP regulations, to require state agencies to monitor electronic benefit transfer card replacement requests and send notices to those clients who have requested four cards within a 12-month period. 

FNS is issuing a final rule to amend Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program regulations to allow state agencies to deny a request for a replacement card until contact is made by the household with the state agency, if the requests for replacement cards are determined to be excessive.

This final rule  revises the current bonding requirements imposed against participating retailers and wholesalers who have violated the Food Stamp Program rules and regulations.

This final rule revises Food Stamp Program regulations pertaining to the standards for approval of Electronic Benefits Transfer systems, the participation of retail food stores and wholesale food concerns, and the state agency liabilities and Federal sanctions.