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USDA/FNS RIN: 0584-AD60 Publication ID: Fall 2009 
Title: Direct Certification of Children in Food Stamp Households and Certification of Homeless, Migrant, and Runaway Children for Free Meals in the NSLP, SBP, and SMP 
Abstract: In response to Public Law 108-265, which amended the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, 7 CFR 245, Determining Eligibility for Free and Reduced Price Meals and Free Milk in Schools, will be amended to establish categorical (automatic) eligibility for free meals and free milk upon documentation that a child is (1) homeless as defined by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act; (2) a runaway served by grant programs under the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act; or (3) migratory as defined in section 1309(2) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. The rule also requires phase-in of mandatory direct certification for children who are members of households receiving food stamps and continues discretionary direct certification for other categorically eligible children. (04-018) 
Agency: Department of Agriculture(USDA)  Priority: Other Significant 
RIN Status: Previously published in the Unified Agenda Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Final Rule Stage 
Major: No  Unfunded Mandates: No 
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210    7 CFR 215    7 CFR 220    7 CFR 245   
Legal Authority: PL 108-265, sec 104   
Legal Deadline:  None

Statement of Need: The changes made to the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act concerning direct certification are intended to improve program access, reduce paperwork, and improve the accuracy of the delivery of free meal benefits. This regulation will implement the statutory changes and provide State agencies and local educational agencies with the policies and procedures to conduct mandatory and discretionary direct certification.

Summary of the Legal Basis: These changes are being made in response to provisions in Public Law 108-265.

Alternatives: FNS will be working closely with State agencies to implement the changes made by this regulation and will be developing extensive guidance materials in conjunction with our cooperators.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits: This regulation will reduce paperwork, target benefits more precisely, and will improve program access of eligible school children.

Risks: This regulation may require adjustments to existing computer systems to more readily share information between schools, food stamp offices, and other agencies.

Timetable:
Action Date FR Cite
Interim Final Rule  02/00/2010    
Interim Final Rule Comment Period End  05/00/2010    
Final Action  05/00/2011    
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No  Government Levels Affected: Local, State 
Small Entities Affected: No  Federalism: No 
Included in the Regulatory Plan: Yes 
RIN Data Printed in the FR: No 
Related RINs: Merged with 0584-AD62 
Agency Contact:
James F Herbert
Regulatory Review Specialist
Department of Agriculture
Food and Nutrition Service
3101 Park Center Drive,
Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone:703 305-2572
Email: james.herbert@fns.usda.gov