Final Rule: WIC Implementation of Electronic Benefit Transfer-Related Provisions

This final rule considers public comments submitted in response to the proposed rule published Feb. 28, 2013 and implements the provisions set forth in the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 related to electronic benefit transfer (EBT) for the WIC program.

The HHFKA amended provisions of the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (CNA) and was enacted on Dec. 13, 2010. EBT provisions of the HHFKA and other EBT implementation requirements included in this final rule are: A definition of EBT; a mandate that all WIC state agencies implement EBT delivery method by Oct. 1, 2020; system management and reporting requirements; revisions to current provisions that prohibit imposition of costs on vendors; a requirement for the Secretary of Agriculture to establish minimum lane equipage standards; a requirement for the Secretary of Agriculture to establish technical standards and operating rules; and a requirement that State agencies use the National Universal Product Code (NUPC) database.

See Also

• Correction (Issued March 31, 2016)
• Questions and Answers on the WIC EBT Final Rule