81 FR 23189 - Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: Standard Utility Allowances Based on the Receipt of Energy Assistance Payments Under the Agricultural Act of 2014
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Food and Nutrition Service Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 76 (April 20, 2016)
Food and Nutrition Service
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 76 (April 20, 2016)
| Page Range | 23189-23194 | |
| FR Document | 2016-09114 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 76 (Wednesday, April 20, 2016)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 23189-23194] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-09114] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Food and Nutrition Service 7 CFR Part 273 RIN 0584-AE43 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: Standard Utility Allowances Based on the Receipt of Energy Assistance Payments Under the Agricultural Act of 2014 AGENCY: Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), USDA. ACTION: Proposed rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: This proposed rule would revise Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) regulations in accordance with amendments made to the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (the Act) that requires States that elect to use a heating or cooling standard utility allowance (HCSUA) in SNAP eligibility determinations to make the HCSUA available to households that have received a payment under the Low- Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 (LIHEAA) (known as a Low- Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) payment), or other similar energy assistance program payment, greater than $20 annually in the current month or in the immediately preceding 12 months. DATES: Written comments must be received on or before June 20, 2016 to be assured of consideration. ADDRESSES: The USDA Food and Nutrition Service invites interested persons to submit written comments on this proposed rule. Comments may be submitted in writing by one of the following methods:Preferred Method: Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for submitting comments. Mail: Send comments to Sasha Gersten-Paal, Branch Chief, Certification Policy Branch, Program Development Division, FNS, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, Virginia 22302, 703-305-2507. All written comments submitted in response to this proposed rule will be included in the record and will be made available to the public. Please be advised that the substance of the comments and the identity of the individuals or entities submitting the comments will be subject to public disclosure. FNS will make the written comments publicly available on the Internet via http://www.regulations.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sasha Gersten-Paal, Branch Chief, [[Page 23190]] Certification Policy Branch, Program Development Division, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, Virginia 22302, 703-305-2507. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, as amended, establishes uniform national eligibility standards for SNAP, including the definition of a SNAP household, countable income and assets, allowable deductions from gross income, and maximum benefit levels. Households are allowed to deduct certain amounts from their gross monthly income, including shelter expenses that exceed 50 percent of their income after all other deductions (up to a maximum limit for households that do not have elderly or disabled members). Household benefits are calculated based on the household's maximum allotment and net income; households with lower net incomes generally receive larger benefits than households with higher net incomes. Shelter expenses include the basic cost of housing as well as utilities and other allowable expenses. In order to simplify program administration, States are permitted to establish Standard Utility Allowances (SUAs) that households may use in lieu of actual utility expenses. States may establish multiple SUAs to reflect differences in households' circumstances. The heating or cooling SUA (HCSUA) is one such SUA and is available to households that pay heating or cooling expenses separate from their rent or mortgage, as well as households that receive Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) payments or other similar energy assistance program payments. Households that do not pay heating or cooling expenses out-of-pocket but that are billed directly for other utility costs are entitled to a SUA (or SUAs) appropriate to the types of utility expenses they incur, where applicable. For the purposes of the HCSUA, receipt of a LIHEAP payment serves as a reasonable proxy for the actual utility costs that a household incurs, providing a simpler way for States and applicants to determine utility costs. Before the enactment of the Agricultural Act of 2014, Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv) of the Act provided that all households receiving a LIHEAP payment or on behalf of which a LIHEAP payment was made automatically qualified for the HCSUA, regardless of the amount of the LIHEAP payment. Current regulations at 7 CFR 273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C) reflect this requirement. Section 4006 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 amends Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) of the Act by requiring States electing to use an HCSUA to make the HCSUA available to households that received a payment or on behalf of which a payment was made under the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 or other similar energy assistance program, if in the current month or in the immediately preceding 12 months, the household either received such a payment or such a payment was made on behalf of the household that was greater than $20 annually. This rule codifies guidance FNS issued to States following passage of the Agricultural Act of 2014. The Department is proposing to amend the regulations at 7 CFR 273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C) to incorporate these changes. Other Similar Energy Assistance Program Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) of the Act, as amended by Section 4006 of the Agricultural Act of 2014, provides for the HCSUA upon receipt of LIHEAP payments as well as payments from an ``other similar energy assistance program.'' The Department is also proposing to amend the regulations at 7 CFR 273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C) to establish a standard for determining what constitutes an ``other similar energy assistance program.'' ``[O]ther similar energy assistance program'' would be defined as a separate home energy assistance program designed to provide heating or cooling assistance through a payment directly to or on behalf of low-income households. For the purposes of this preamble discussion, the phrase ``qualifying LIHEAP or other payment'' refers to those LIHEAP or other similar energy assistance program payments that are in excess of $20 annually and have been received by or made on behalf of the household in the current or immediately preceding 12 months. The language in the Act refers to LIHEAP or other similar energy assistance program payments received by or made ``on behalf of'' households, while the existing regulatory language refers to direct or indirect payments received by households. To support consistency, the Department proposes that the regulatory language reflect the statutory language. Qualifying LIHEAP or Other Payment Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) of the Act, as amended by Section 4006 of the Agricultural Act of 2014, requires that the payment received by or made on behalf of the household must exceed $20 annually. The Department does not have discretion to alter the $20 threshold. However, standards regarding the payment would be important and helpful in order to ensure uniformity across State agencies. Therefore, the payment must be quantifiable in order to be acceptable for purposes of granting the HCSUA. By quantifiable, the Department means that the State agency must be able to quantify, in dollars, the amount of the payment. The Department is proposing to codify these requirements at revised 7 CFR 273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C)(1)(iii). Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) of the Act also requires receipt of the payment in the ``current'' month or the immediately preceding 12 months in order to confer eligibility for the HCSUA. As proposed, the ``current month'' refers strictly to the calendar month, meaning from the first to the final day of a given month. On a related note, the Department proposes to revise language at 7 CFR 273.10(d)(6), which currently provides that all energy assistance payments except for those made under the LIHEAA must be prorated over the entire heating or cooling season that the payment is intended to cover. This was a technical error that FNS proposes to correct in this rule. Such a correction is consistent with the language in the Agricultural Act of 2014 that qualifying LIHEAP payments must be received in the current month or the immediately preceding 12 months in order to confer eligibility for the HCSUA. Additionally, the Agricultural Act of 2014 struck language in Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) of the Act requiring that households incur ``out-of-pocket heating or cooling expenses in excess of any assistance paid on behalf of the household to an energy provider.'' In light of these changes made by the Agricultural Act of 2014, FNS is proposing to amend 7 CFR 273.10(d)(6) to reflect the requirement in Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(IV) that assistance under LIHEAA be considered to be prorated over the heating or cooling season. The new language in Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) of the Act no longer allows a household to qualify for a HCSUA based on anticipated receipt in future months. This rule proposes that applying the HCSUA to a household's case based on anticipated receipt is only permissible if the payment is anticipated to be received by the household within the current calendar month. At the State agency's option, if a qualifying LIHEAP or other payment greater than $20 (or payment which would bring the household's total payments for the year to a total greater than $20) is scheduled for the current month, the payment may be considered [[Page 23191]] to have been received for the purposes of conferring eligibility for the HCSUA. However, if the payment is not actually made within that month, benefits received by the household would be considered an overissuance and the State agency should pursue a claim against the household for any benefits issued in error in accordance with its established claims management procedures. The Department is proposing to revise 7 CFR 273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C) accordingly to codify these requirements. State agencies would be responsible for tracking the date and receipt of the qualifying LIHEAP or other payment to ensure the payment satisfies the timing requirements and exceeds the $20 minimum threshold. The Department encourages State agencies to modify data sharing agreements with their respective LIHEAP agencies, as appropriate, to ensure transmission of timely and accurate information needed for SNAP eligibility and benefit determinations. If a household has not received a qualifying LIHEAP or other payment at the time of certification and has not incurred actual utility expenses, the household would not be entitled to the HCSUA at certification. If the household were to subsequently receive a qualifying LIHEAP or other payment, or if one were made on the household's behalf during the certification period, the State agency would need to take action according to the rules of their chosen reporting system under 7 CFR 273.12. The Department notes that this provision does not affect a household's ability, if any, to use actual costs rather than the standardized HCSUA. SNAP households that are billed directly for utility costs are entitled to a Standard Utility Allowance (SUA) appropriate to the types of utility expenses they incur. In States that do not have mandatory SUA policies, the household is entitled to use its actual costs, rather than the standard. The Department encourages all State agencies to review their available utility allowances to ensure that all households with actual expenses are able to claim an allowance that best represents that types of utility expenses they have. As a related issue, the regulations at 7 CFR 273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C) as currently written provide that a HCSUA is available to households in private rental housing who are billed by their landlords on the basis of individual usage or who are charged a flat rate separately from their rent. However, the Department understands that some individuals renting in public housing may also be billed based on individual usage or separately from their rent. Although the more common situation is for public housing properties to include heating and cooling costs in the rent, public housing rental situations with separate heating and cooling costs do exist. For these reasons, the Department is proposing a technical correction to Sec. 273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C) by removing the word ``private'' from this provision. In States with mandatory HCSUAs, utility costs do not require verification for SNAP purposes, unless questionable. Similarly, receipt of more than $20 in qualifying LIHEAP or other payments would not require verification for SNAP purposes, unless questionable. In States that do not mandate use of the HCSUA, verification of utility costs is mandatory if the household wishes to claim utility costs in excess of the State agency's HCSUA and the expense would actually result in a deduction. State agencies should consider program access, integrity, and the potential for Quality Control errors in determining their verification procedures. Special Circumstances State agencies that use the HCSUA would need to make the HCSUA available to SNAP households that have received a qualifying LIHEAP or other similar energy assistance program payment, regardless of any change in the household's residence or address. The Act does not specify that the qualifying LIHEAP or other payment must be received at the household's current address or place of residence. If the State agency has an indication that a household received a qualifying LIHEAP or other payment in another State, the State would need to act on it. Again, for States that have elected to use a HCSUA, the HCSUA would need to be made available to households that have received a qualifying LIHEAP or other payment, provided that the payment was received in the current month or preceding 12 months and was in excess of $20 over the same time period. If a household that has received a qualifying LIHEAP or other payment subsequently splits into two SNAP households, State agencies would need to determine which one household is eligible for the HCSUA based on the qualifying LIHEAP or other payment. The Department believes the State agency is in the best situation to determine which household would receive the HCSUA based on the qualifying LIHEAP or other payment. As with other discretionary policy decisions, a State's chosen policy would need to be applied in a consistent and equitable way. The Department is proposing to revise 7 CFR 273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C) to incorporate these standards. The Department has received several inquiries regarding weatherization projects and eligibility for the HCSUA. The Department understands that State agencies may use a portion of LIHEAP block grant funding to support weatherization projects. Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv) of the Act requires State agencies that use the HCSUA to make the HCSUA available to SNAP households that have received a LIHEAP or other payment, provided the payment was received by or made on behalf of the household in the current or preceding 12 months and exceeds $20 annually. The Act does not explicitly address how State agencies should evaluate LIHEAP funds that are used to pay for weatherization projects on behalf of households in multi-family dwellings. However, to be an acceptable qualifying LIHEAP or other payment, the payment must be quantifiable to the household. The Department is proposing that weatherization projects for multi-family dwellings cannot confer eligibility for the HCSUA for households within the multi-family dwelling. The Act does not explicitly address how State agencies should evaluate LIHEAP funds that are used to pay for weatherization projects in multi-family dwellings. However, in a June 15, 1999 Information Memorandum issued by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which oversees LIHEAP at the Federal level, HHS determined that weatherization of multi-unit buildings ``is not a benefit provided to an individual, household or family eligibility unit.'' Because the Act requires that the LIHEAP or other payment must have been received by or made on behalf of a household, the Department is proposing that such payments cannot confer eligibility for the HCSUA. However, the Department requests comment on whether HHS' guidance is fully applicable in this situation, such as when weatherization of multi- family dwellings is funded by other similar energy assistance programs, and is considering alternative approaches that may allow multi-family dwelling weatherization projects to confer eligibility for the HCSUA. The Department requests comment on this proposal as well as potential alternative approaches. Procedural Matters Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess all costs and [[Page 23192]] benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, public health and safety effects, distributive impacts, and equity). Executive Order 13563 emphasizes the importance of quantifying both costs and benefits, of reducing costs, of harmonizing rules, and of promoting flexibility. This proposed rule has been determined to be economically significant and was reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in conformance with Executive Order 12866. Regulatory Impact Analysis As required for all rules that have been designated as significant by OMB, a RIA was developed for this proposed rule. The RIA for this rule was published as part of docket number [Docket Placeholder] on www.regulations.gov. A summary of the analysis follows: The Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) that accompanies this proposed rule outlines the savings to the Government as well as the effect of the proposed rule on low-income families, program participation, and State agencies. The RIA also outlines the uncertainty in assumptions on savings and alternatives considered when drafting the proposed rule. The Department estimates that the total savings to the Government from reduced SNAP benefits will be $2.2 billion between FY 2016 and FY 2020. The Department estimates that the effect of the rule on low- income families will result in potentially smaller benefit amounts for some families, primarily those living in States that have minimum LIHEAP payments below the new minimum threshold for LIHEAP payments required to be eligible for a HCSUA. The Department estimates that the impact on SNAP participation will be minimal, with one-fourth of households in States that do not increase their LIHEAP payment above the $20 threshold seeing a decrease in benefits, but likely still being eligible to participate in the program. The Department estimates that the impact on State agencies will be minimal since States already made changes to their current caseload in accordance with the timeframes established under Section 4006 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 and the FNS guidance implementing Section 4006. There is some uncertainty concerning the estimates in the RIA, in part because they assume no changes in State behavior over time. Thirteen States have increased their minimum LIHEAP payments following the enactment of Section 4006 of the Agricultural Act of 2014. If one or more of these thirteen states decreases or discontinues these minimum payments in future years, savings would increase. Conversely, if any additional States decide to issue LIHEAP payments above the $20 threshold in future years, savings would decrease. The Department did not consider any alternatives to this rule because the language in the Agricultural Act of 2014 was very specific and prescriptive regarding the implementation dates and the payment threshold required. Regulatory Flexibility Act The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601-612) requires Agencies to analyze the impact of rulemaking on small entities and consider alternatives that would minimize any significant impacts on a substantial number of small entities. Pursuant to that review, it has been certified that this proposed rule would not have a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. State agencies that administer SNAP will be affected to the extent they implement the changes to program operations. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA), Public Law 104-4, establishes requirements for Federal agencies to assess the effects of their regulatory actions on State, local and Tribal governments and the private sector. Under section 202 of the UMRA, the Department generally must prepare a written statement, including a cost benefit analysis, for proposed and final rules with ``Federal mandates'' that may result in expenditures by State, local or Tribal governments, in the aggregate, or the private sector, of $100 million or more in any one year. When such a statement is needed for a rule, Section 205 of the UMRA generally requires the Department to identify and consider a reasonable number of regulatory alternatives and adopt the most cost effective or least burdensome alternative that achieves the objectives of the rule. This proposed rule does not contain Federal mandates (under the regulatory provisions of Title II of the UMRA) for State, local and Tribal governments or the private sector of $100 million or more in any one year. Thus, the rule is not subject to the requirements of sections 202 and 205 of the UMRA. Executive Order 12372 SNAP is listed in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Programs under 10.551. For the reasons set forth in the final rule in 7 CFR part 3015, subpart V, and related Notice (48 FR 29115, June 24, 1983), this program is included in the scope of Executive Order 12372, which requires intergovernmental consultation with State and local officials. Federalism Summary Impact Statement Executive Order 13132 requires Federal agencies to consider the impact of their regulatory actions on State and local governments. Where such actions have federalism implications, agencies are directed to provide a statement for inclusion in the preamble to the regulations describing the agency's considerations in terms of the three categories called for under Section (6)(b)(2)(B) of Executive Order 13121. The Department has determined that this proposed rule does not have Federalism implications. This rule does not impose substantial or direct compliance costs on State and local governments. Therefore, under Section 6(b) of the Executive Order, a Federalism summary impact statement is not required. Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform This proposed rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice Reform. This rule, when published as a final rule, is intended to have preemptive effect with respect to any State or local laws, regulations or policies which conflict with its provisions or which would otherwise impede its full and timely implementation. This rule is not intended to have retroactive effect unless so specified in the Effective Dates section of the final rule. Prior to any judicial challenge to the provisions of the final rule, all applicable administrative procedures must be exhausted. Civil Rights Impact Analysis The Department has reviewed this proposed rule in accordance with the Department Regulation 4300-4, ``Civil Rights Impact Analysis,'' to identify and address any major civil rights impacts the rule might have on minorities, women, and persons with disabilities. After a careful review of the rule's intent and provisions, the Department has determined that this rule will not in any way limit or reduce the ability of protected classes of individuals. The Department has reviewed this proposed rule in accordance with USDA Regulation 4300-4, ``Civil Rights Impact Analysis,'' to identify any major civil rights impacts the rule might have on [[Page 23193]] program participants on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, sex, or disability. The changes to SNAP regulations in this proposed rule are required by law and are not intended to limit the participation of any group of individuals in the SNAP program. Impact on Households: This mandatory change will impact all households uniformly, regardless of status in a protected class. Although LIHEAP and other similar energy assistance program payments are issued by agencies other than USDA, FNS understands that these payments are not disseminated to specific portions of the population based on status in a protected class. Nor does FNS have information indicating that particular protected classes receive these payments. In States that do not provide minimum LIHEAP payments greater than $20, the new legislation may affect the number of households that qualify for the HCSUA and may cause a reduction to those households' monthly SNAP benefit amounts. However, households that previously qualified for the HCSUA based on the receipt of a $20 or less LIHEAP payment may still qualify for the HCSUA if they incur heating or cooling expenses. Only those households without actual heating and cooling costs will experience a benefit change due to the implementation of this provision of the Agricultural Act of 2014. Further, FNS specifically prohibits the State and local government agencies that administer the program from engaging in discriminatory actions. Discrimination in any aspect of program administration is prohibited by SNAP regulations, the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Where State agencies have options, and they choose to implement a certain provision, they must implement it in such a way that it complies with these requirements and the regulations at 7 CFR 272.6. Impact on State Agencies: State agencies have already implemented this requirement, and have already completed necessary changes to eligibility systems, manuals, and training procedures for staff. Also, although State agencies had some flexibility to stagger the application of this provision to ongoing caseloads, at this point, the new requirements are being used to determine program eligibility for all new applicants and ongoing cases. Training and Outreach: SNAP is administered by State agencies which communicate program information and program rules based on Federal law and regulations to those within their jurisdiction, including individuals from protected classes that may be affected by program changes. After the passage of the Agricultural Act of 2014, FNS worked with State agencies to ensure their understanding of the changes required by Section 4006. FNS released an implementation memorandum on this provision with all State agencies on March 5, 2014. In response to various State agencies' questions on LIHEAP-related issues, FNS shared guidance through a Question & Answer memorandum on April 7, 2014 and a second Q&A memorandum on August 20, 2014 to address the State agencies' questions and concerns and ensure clarity on requirements for implementing the requirement. FNS also maintains a public Web site that provides basic information on each program, including SNAP. Interested persons, including potential applicants, applicants, and participants can find information about these changes as well as State agency contact information, downloadable applications, and links to State agency Web sites and online applications. After careful review of the rule's intent and provisions, and the characteristics of SNAP households and individual participants, the Department has determined that this proposed rule will not have a disparate impact on any group or class of persons. Executive Order 13175 This proposed rule has been reviewed in accordance with the requirements of Executive Order 13175, ``Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments.'' Executive Order 13175 requires Federal agencies to consult and coordinate with tribes on a government- to-government basis on policies that have tribal implications, including regulations, legislative comments or proposed legislation, and other policy statements or actions that have substantial direct effects on one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal Government and Indian tribes or on the distribution of power and responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. FNS has assessed the impact of this proposed rule on Indian tribes and determined that this rule does not, to our knowledge, have tribal implications that require tribal consultation under E.O. 13175. On February 18, 2015, the agency held a webinar for tribal participation and comments. No comments were received. If a Tribe requests consultation, FNS will work with the Office of Tribal Relations to ensure meaningful consultation is provided where changes, additions, and modifications identified herein are not expressly mandated by Congress. Paperwork Reduction Act The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chap. 35; 5 CFR 13200) requires that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approve all collections of information by a Federal agency before they can be implemented. This proposed rule does not contain information collection requirements subject to approval of OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1994. State agencies were required to make minimal, one-time changes to their eligibility systems, manuals, and training procedures for staff by May 5, 2014 to comply with the provisions of the statute. Other minimal burdens imposed on State agencies by this proposed rule are usual and customary within the course of their normal business activities. E-Government Act Compliance The Department is committed to complying with the E-Government Act, to promote the use of the Internet and other information technologies to provide increased opportunities for citizen access to Government information and services, and for other purposes. List of Subjects in 7 CFR Part 273 Determining household eligibility and benefit levels, Income and deductions. Accordingly, 7 CFR part 273 is proposed to be amended as follows: PART 273--CERTIFICATION OF ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLDS 0 1. The authority citation for part 273 continues to read as follows: Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2011-2036. 0 2. In Sec. 273.9, revise paragraph (d)(6)(iii)(C) to read as follows: Sec. 273.9 Income and deductions. * * * * * (d) * * * (6) * * * (iii) * * * (C)(1) A standard with a heating or cooling component must be made available to the following households: (i) Households that incur heating or cooling expenses separately from their rent or mortgage; [[Page 23194]] (ii) Households in rental housing who are billed by their landlords on the basis of individual usage or who are charged a flat rate separately from their rent. However, households in public housing units which have central utility meters and which charge households only for excess heating or cooling costs are not entitled to a standard that includes heating or cooling costs based only on the charge for excess usage, unless the State agency mandates the use of standard utility allowances in accordance with paragraph (d)(6)(iii)(E) of this section; and (iii) Households that receive a payment or on behalf of which a payment was made under the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 (LIHEAA) or other similar energy assistance program, if in the current month or in the immediately preceding 12 months and such payment was greater than $20 annually. Other similar energy assistance programs are separate home energy assistance programs designed to provide heating or cooling assistance through a payment received by or made on behalf of low-income households. A payment received by a household or made on behalf of a household under LIHEAA or other similar energy assistance program must be quantifiable in order to confer eligibility for the heating and cooling standard utility allowance. A quantifiable payment is one that the State agency quantifies, in dollars. The State agency shall document the date and receipt of a payment made under LIHEAA or other similar energy assistance program to ensure the payment was received in the current month or the immediately preceding 12 months and exceeds $20 annually. In determining a household's eligibility for the HCSUA, State agencies shall not consider anticipated receipt of a payment to be an actual payment received under the LIHEAA or other similar energy assistance program. However, for purposes of this subclause, a State agency may consider a payment under the LIHEAA or other similar energy assistance program to be received by the household or on behalf of the household if the household is scheduled to receive the payment in the current month. In a case where a payment is scheduled to be received in the current month and the payment is not actually made within that month, the State agency is responsible for determining whether an overissuance has occurred and, if so, establishing a claim against the household for any benefits issued in error in accordance with the requirements at 7 CFR 273.18. If a household that has received a payment made under the LIHEAA or other similar energy assistance program or such a payment has been made on a household's behalf and the household subsequently splits into two SNAP households, the State agency must determine which one household is eligible for the heating and cooling standard utility allowance as a result of receiving that payment. (2) A household that has both an occupied home and an unoccupied home is only entitled to one standard. * * * * * 0 3. In Sec. 273.10, revise paragraph (d)(6) to read as follows: Sec. 273.10 Determining household eligibility and benefit levels. * * * * * (d) * * * (6) Energy Assistance Payments. The State agency shall prorate energy assistance payments as provided for in Sec. 273.9(d) of this part over the entire heating or cooling season the payment is intended to cover. * * * * * Dated: April 12, 2016. Kevin Concannon, Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services. [FR Doc. 2016-09114 Filed 4-19-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-30-P
![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 76 / Wednesday, April 20, 2016 / Proposed Rules 23189
Since this change is a technical information and services, and for other DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
correction and editorial in nature, and purposes.
will not result in a change to the way Food and Nutrition Service
List of Subjects in 7 CFR Part 56
service is provided to our customers,
AMS has determined it will not have a Agriculture, Eggs and egg products, 7 CFR Part 273
financial impact on small entities that Food grades and standards, Food RIN 0584–AE43
utilize their services. labeling, Food packaging, Reporting and
AMS also proposes to revise the recordkeeping requirements, Voluntary Supplemental Nutrition Assistance
prerequisite requirement of shell eggs standards. Program: Standard Utility Allowances
eligible for USDA grading and Based on the Receipt of Energy
certification. The revision will prohibit For the reasons set forth in the Assistance Payments Under the
the use of SE-adulterated shell eggs or preamble, it is proposed that 7 CFR part Agricultural Act of 2014
recalled shell eggs from being presented 56 be amended as follows:
to USDA for grading and certification. AGENCY: Food and Nutrition Service
PART 56—REGULATIONS (FNS), USDA.
The FDA prohibits the use of SE- GOVERNING THE VOLUNTARY
adulterated shell eggs from being sold to ACTION: Proposed rule.
GRADING OF SHELL EGGS
consumers. When shell eggs are
SUMMARY: This proposed rule would
suspected of being adulterated with SE,
■ 1. The authority citation for part 56 revise Supplemental Nutrition
the packing facility is obligated to test
continues to read as follows: Assistance Program (SNAP) regulations
the shell eggs to assure only safe
Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1621 et seq. in accordance with amendments made
product is distributed to consumers. If
to the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008
shell eggs are found to be adulterated
■ 2. Amend § 56.1 by revising the (the Act) that requires States that elect
with SE, the FDA will issue a request to
definition of Condition to read as to use a heating or cooling standard
the packing facility to voluntarily recall
follows: utility allowance (HCSUA) in SNAP
the product, or will exercise its
eligibility determinations to make the
mandatory recall authority to return the § 56.1 Meaning of words and terms HCSUA available to households that
product to the origin facility. The defined.
have received a payment under the
product must either be destroyed or * * * * * Low-Income Home Energy Assistance
reconditioned under FDA supervision.
Condition means any characteristic Act of 1981 (LIHEAA) (known as a Low-
Since SE-adulterated shell eggs or detected by sensory examination Income Home Energy Assistance
shell eggs that have been recalled are no (visual, touch, or odor), including the Program (LIHEAP) payment), or other
longer eligible for distribution to state of preservation, cleanliness, similar energy assistance program
consumers, but are either destroyed or soundness, or fitness for human food payment, greater than $20 annually in
reconditioned under the direction of the that affects the marketing of the product. the current month or in the immediately
FDA, changing the AMS regulation will preceding 12 months.
not have an impact on small entities * * * * *
■ 3. Amend § 56.40 by revising DATES: Written comments must be
since those shell eggs are deemed unfit
for human consumption. paragraphs (c)(2) and (3) and adding received on or before June 20, 2016 to
paragraphs (c)(4) and (5) to read as be assured of consideration.
Paperwork Reduction Act ADDRESSES: The USDA Food and
follows:
In accordance with the Paperwork Nutrition Service invites interested
§ 56.40 Grading requirements of shell persons to submit written comments on
Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501
eggs identified with grademarks. this proposed rule. Comments may be
et seq.), the Office of Management and
Budget (OMB) has approved the * * * * * submitted in writing by one of the
information collection and (c) * * * following methods:
recordkeeping requirements included in • Preferred Method: Federal
(2) Not possess any undesirable odors
this proposed rule, and there are no new eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://
or flavors;
requirements. Should any changes www.regulations.gov. Follow the online
become necessary they would be (3) Not have previously been shipped instructions for submitting comments.
submitted to OMB for approval. The for retail sale; • Mail: Send comments to Sasha
assigned OMB control number is 0581– (4) Not originate from a layer house Gersten-Paal, Branch Chief, Certification
0128, as approved on July 8, 2014. environment determined positive for the Policy Branch, Program Development
AMS is committed to compliance presence of Salmonella Enteritidis (SE) Division, FNS, 3101 Park Center Drive,
with the Government Paperwork unless the eggs from the layer house Alexandria, Virginia 22302, 703–305–
Elimination Act, which requires have been sampled and have tested 2507.
government agencies in general to negative for the presence of SE in the All written comments submitted in
provide the public the option of eggs; and response to this proposed rule will be
submitting information or transacting (5) Not originate from eggs testing included in the record and will be made
business electronically to the maximum positive for SE, or not have been subject available to the public. Please be
extent possible. to a product recall. advised that the substance of the
comments and the identity of the
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E-Government Act * * * * * individuals or entities submitting the
AMS is committed to complying with Dated: April 14, 2016. comments will be subject to public
the E-Government Act of 2002 to Elanor Starmer, disclosure. FNS will make the written
promote the use of the Internet and Administrator, Agricultural Marketing comments publicly available on the
other information technologies to Service. Internet via http://www.regulations.gov.
provide increased opportunities for [FR Doc. 2016–09139 Filed 4–19–16; 8:45 am] FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
citizen access to government BILLING CODE 3410–02–P Sasha Gersten-Paal, Branch Chief,
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![23190 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 76 / Wednesday, April 20, 2016 / Proposed Rules
Certification Policy Branch, Program Section 4006 of the Agricultural Act have discretion to alter the $20
Development Division, Food and of 2014 amends Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) threshold. However, standards regarding
Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center of the Act by requiring States electing to the payment would be important and
Drive, Alexandria, Virginia 22302, 703– use an HCSUA to make the HCSUA helpful in order to ensure uniformity
305–2507. available to households that received a across State agencies. Therefore, the
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: payment or on behalf of which a payment must be quantifiable in order
payment was made under the Low- to be acceptable for purposes of granting
Background Income Home Energy Assistance Act of the HCSUA. By quantifiable, the
The Food and Nutrition Act of 2008, 1981 or other similar energy assistance Department means that the State agency
as amended, establishes uniform program, if in the current month or in must be able to quantify, in dollars, the
national eligibility standards for SNAP, the immediately preceding 12 months, amount of the payment. The Department
including the definition of a SNAP the household either received such a is proposing to codify these
household, countable income and payment or such a payment was made requirements at revised 7 CFR
assets, allowable deductions from gross on behalf of the household that was 273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C)(1)(iii).
income, and maximum benefit levels. greater than $20 annually. Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) of the Act also
Households are allowed to deduct This rule codifies guidance FNS requires receipt of the payment in the
certain amounts from their gross issued to States following passage of the ‘‘current’’ month or the immediately
monthly income, including shelter Agricultural Act of 2014. The preceding 12 months in order to confer
expenses that exceed 50 percent of their Department is proposing to amend the eligibility for the HCSUA. As proposed,
income after all other deductions (up to regulations at 7 CFR 273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C) the ‘‘current month’’ refers strictly to the
a maximum limit for households that do to incorporate these changes. calendar month, meaning from the first
not have elderly or disabled members). to the final day of a given month.
Other Similar Energy Assistance On a related note, the Department
Household benefits are calculated based
Program proposes to revise language at 7 CFR
on the household’s maximum allotment
and net income; households with lower Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) of the Act, as 273.10(d)(6), which currently provides
net incomes generally receive larger amended by Section 4006 of the that all energy assistance payments
benefits than households with higher Agricultural Act of 2014, provides for except for those made under the
net incomes. the HCSUA upon receipt of LIHEAP LIHEAA must be prorated over the
Shelter expenses include the basic payments as well as payments from an entire heating or cooling season that the
cost of housing as well as utilities and ‘‘other similar energy assistance payment is intended to cover. This was
other allowable expenses. In order to program.’’ The Department is also a technical error that FNS proposes to
simplify program administration, States proposing to amend the regulations at 7 correct in this rule. Such a correction is
are permitted to establish Standard CFR 273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C) to establish a consistent with the language in the
Utility Allowances (SUAs) that standard for determining what Agricultural Act of 2014 that qualifying
households may use in lieu of actual constitutes an ‘‘other similar energy LIHEAP payments must be received in
utility expenses. States may establish assistance program.’’ ‘‘[O]ther similar the current month or the immediately
multiple SUAs to reflect differences in energy assistance program’’ would be preceding 12 months in order to confer
households’ circumstances. The heating defined as a separate home energy eligibility for the HCSUA. Additionally,
or cooling SUA (HCSUA) is one such assistance program designed to provide the Agricultural Act of 2014 struck
SUA and is available to households that heating or cooling assistance through a language in Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) of
pay heating or cooling expenses payment directly to or on behalf of low- the Act requiring that households incur
separate from their rent or mortgage, as income households. ‘‘out-of-pocket heating or cooling
well as households that receive Low- For the purposes of this preamble expenses in excess of any assistance
Income Home Energy Assistance discussion, the phrase ‘‘qualifying paid on behalf of the household to an
Program (LIHEAP) payments or other LIHEAP or other payment’’ refers to energy provider.’’ In light of these
similar energy assistance program those LIHEAP or other similar energy changes made by the Agricultural Act of
payments. Households that do not pay assistance program payments that are in 2014, FNS is proposing to amend 7 CFR
heating or cooling expenses out-of- excess of $20 annually and have been 273.10(d)(6) to reflect the requirement
pocket but that are billed directly for received by or made on behalf of the in Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(IV) that
other utility costs are entitled to a SUA household in the current or immediately assistance under LIHEAA be considered
(or SUAs) appropriate to the types of preceding 12 months. to be prorated over the heating or
utility expenses they incur, where The language in the Act refers to cooling season.
applicable. LIHEAP or other similar energy The new language in Section
For the purposes of the HCSUA, assistance program payments received 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) of the Act no longer
receipt of a LIHEAP payment serves as by or made ‘‘on behalf of’’ households, allows a household to qualify for a
a reasonable proxy for the actual utility while the existing regulatory language HCSUA based on anticipated receipt in
costs that a household incurs, providing refers to direct or indirect payments future months. This rule proposes that
a simpler way for States and applicants received by households. To support applying the HCSUA to a household’s
to determine utility costs. Before the consistency, the Department proposes case based on anticipated receipt is only
enactment of the Agricultural Act of that the regulatory language reflect the permissible if the payment is
2014, Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv) of the Act statutory language. anticipated to be received by the
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provided that all households receiving a household within the current calendar
LIHEAP payment or on behalf of which Qualifying LIHEAP or Other Payment month. At the State agency’s option, if
a LIHEAP payment was made Section 5(e)(6)(C)(iv)(I) of the Act, as a qualifying LIHEAP or other payment
automatically qualified for the HCSUA, amended by Section 4006 of the greater than $20 (or payment which
regardless of the amount of the LIHEAP Agricultural Act of 2014, requires that would bring the household’s total
payment. Current regulations at 7 CFR the payment received by or made on payments for the year to a total greater
273.9(d)(6)(iii)(C) reflect this behalf of the household must exceed than $20) is scheduled for the current
requirement. $20 annually. The Department does not month, the payment may be considered
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![23192 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 76 / Wednesday, April 20, 2016 / Proposed Rules
benefits of available regulatory have increased their minimum LIHEAP under 10.551. For the reasons set forth
alternatives and, if regulation is payments following the enactment of in the final rule in 7 CFR part 3015,
necessary, to select regulatory Section 4006 of the Agricultural Act of subpart V, and related Notice (48 FR
approaches that maximize net benefits 2014. If one or more of these thirteen 29115, June 24, 1983), this program is
(including potential economic, states decreases or discontinues these included in the scope of Executive
environmental, public health and safety minimum payments in future years, Order 12372, which requires
effects, distributive impacts, and savings would increase. Conversely, if intergovernmental consultation with
equity). Executive Order 13563 any additional States decide to issue State and local officials.
emphasizes the importance of LIHEAP payments above the $20
Federalism Summary Impact Statement
quantifying both costs and benefits, of threshold in future years, savings would
reducing costs, of harmonizing rules, decrease. The Department did not Executive Order 13132 requires
and of promoting flexibility. consider any alternatives to this rule Federal agencies to consider the impact
This proposed rule has been because the language in the Agricultural of their regulatory actions on State and
determined to be economically Act of 2014 was very specific and local governments. Where such actions
significant and was reviewed by the prescriptive regarding the have federalism implications, agencies
Office of Management and Budget implementation dates and the payment are directed to provide a statement for
(OMB) in conformance with Executive threshold required. inclusion in the preamble to the
Order 12866. regulations describing the agency’s
Regulatory Flexibility Act considerations in terms of the three
Regulatory Impact Analysis The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 categories called for under Section
As required for all rules that have U.S.C. 601–612) requires Agencies to (6)(b)(2)(B) of Executive Order 13121.
been designated as significant by OMB, analyze the impact of rulemaking on The Department has determined that
a RIA was developed for this proposed small entities and consider alternatives this proposed rule does not have
rule. The RIA for this rule was that would minimize any significant Federalism implications. This rule does
published as part of docket number impacts on a substantial number of not impose substantial or direct
[Docket Placeholder] on small entities. Pursuant to that review, compliance costs on State and local
www.regulations.gov. A summary of the it has been certified that this proposed governments. Therefore, under Section
analysis follows: rule would not have a significant impact 6(b) of the Executive Order, a
The Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) on a substantial number of small Federalism summary impact statement
that accompanies this proposed rule entities. State agencies that administer is not required.
outlines the savings to the Government SNAP will be affected to the extent they
as well as the effect of the proposed rule Executive Order 12988, Civil Justice
implement the changes to program Reform
on low-income families, program operations.
participation, and State agencies. The This proposed rule has been reviewed
RIA also outlines the uncertainty in Unfunded Mandates Reform Act under Executive Order 12988, Civil
assumptions on savings and alternatives Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Justice Reform. This rule, when
considered when drafting the proposed Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA), Public published as a final rule, is intended to
rule. Law 104–4, establishes requirements for have preemptive effect with respect to
The Department estimates that the Federal agencies to assess the effects of any State or local laws, regulations or
total savings to the Government from their regulatory actions on State, local policies which conflict with its
reduced SNAP benefits will be $2.2 and Tribal governments and the private provisions or which would otherwise
billion between FY 2016 and FY 2020. sector. Under section 202 of the UMRA, impede its full and timely
The Department estimates that the effect the Department generally must prepare implementation. This rule is not
of the rule on low-income families will a written statement, including a cost intended to have retroactive effect
result in potentially smaller benefit benefit analysis, for proposed and final unless so specified in the Effective Dates
amounts for some families, primarily rules with ‘‘Federal mandates’’ that may section of the final rule. Prior to any
those living in States that have result in expenditures by State, local or judicial challenge to the provisions of
minimum LIHEAP payments below the Tribal governments, in the aggregate, or the final rule, all applicable
new minimum threshold for LIHEAP the private sector, of $100 million or administrative procedures must be
payments required to be eligible for a more in any one year. When such a exhausted.
HCSUA. The Department estimates that statement is needed for a rule, Section
the impact on SNAP participation will Civil Rights Impact Analysis
205 of the UMRA generally requires the
be minimal, with one-fourth of Department to identify and consider a The Department has reviewed this
households in States that do not reasonable number of regulatory proposed rule in accordance with the
increase their LIHEAP payment above alternatives and adopt the most cost Department Regulation 4300–4, ‘‘Civil
the $20 threshold seeing a decrease in effective or least burdensome alternative Rights Impact Analysis,’’ to identify and
benefits, but likely still being eligible to that achieves the objectives of the rule. address any major civil rights impacts
participate in the program. The This proposed rule does not contain the rule might have on minorities,
Department estimates that the impact on Federal mandates (under the regulatory women, and persons with disabilities.
State agencies will be minimal since provisions of Title II of the UMRA) for After a careful review of the rule’s intent
States already made changes to their State, local and Tribal governments or and provisions, the Department has
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current caseload in accordance with the the private sector of $100 million or determined that this rule will not in any
timeframes established under Section more in any one year. Thus, the rule is way limit or reduce the ability of
4006 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 and not subject to the requirements of protected classes of individuals. The
the FNS guidance implementing Section sections 202 and 205 of the UMRA. Department has reviewed this proposed
4006. There is some uncertainty rule in accordance with USDA
concerning the estimates in the RIA, in Executive Order 12372 Regulation 4300–4, ‘‘Civil Rights Impact
part because they assume no changes in SNAP is listed in the Catalog of Analysis,’’ to identify any major civil
State behavior over time. Thirteen States Federal Domestic Assistance Programs rights impacts the rule might have on
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![23194 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 76 / Wednesday, April 20, 2016 / Proposed Rules
(ii) Households in rental housing who If a household that has received a products thereof, processed in certified
are billed by their landlords on the basis payment made under the LIHEAA or Polish establishments, would be eligible
of individual usage or who are charged other similar energy assistance program for export to the United States.
a flat rate separately from their rent. or such a payment has been made on a Although Poland may be listed in FSIS’s
However, households in public housing household’s behalf and the household regulations as eligible to export poultry
units which have central utility meters subsequently splits into two SNAP products to the United States, the
and which charge households only for households, the State agency must products must also comply with all
excess heating or cooling costs are not determine which one household is other applicable requirements of the
entitled to a standard that includes eligible for the heating and cooling United States, including those of
heating or cooling costs based only on standard utility allowance as a result of USDA’s Animal and Plant Health
the charge for excess usage, unless the receiving that payment. Inspection Service (APHIS), before any
State agency mandates the use of (2) A household that has both an products can enter the United States.
standard utility allowances in occupied home and an unoccupied All such products would be subject to
accordance with paragraph (d)(6)(iii)(E) home is only entitled to one standard. re-inspection at U.S. ports-of-entry by
of this section; and * * * * * FSIS inspectors.
(iii) Households that receive a ■ 3. In § 273.10, revise paragraph (d)(6) DATES: Comments must be received on
payment or on behalf of which a to read as follows: or before June 20, 2016.
payment was made under the Low ADDRESSES: FSIS invites interested
§ 273.10 Determining household eligibility
Income Home Energy Assistance Act of and benefit levels. persons to submit comments on this
1981 (LIHEAA) or other similar energy proposed rule. Comments may be
assistance program, if in the current * * * * *
submitted by one of the following
month or in the immediately preceding (d) * * *
(6) Energy Assistance Payments. The methods:
12 months and such payment was • Federal eRulemaking Portal: This
State agency shall prorate energy
greater than $20 annually. Other similar Web site provides the ability to type
assistance payments as provided for in
energy assistance programs are separate short comments directly into the
§ 273.9(d) of this part over the entire
home energy assistance programs comment field on this Web page or
heating or cooling season the payment
designed to provide heating or cooling attach a file for lengthier comments. Go
is intended to cover.
assistance through a payment received to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow
by or made on behalf of low-income * * * * * the online instructions at that site for
households. A payment received by a Dated: April 12, 2016. submitting comments.
household or made on behalf of a Kevin Concannon, • Mail, including CD–ROMs, etc.:
household under LIHEAA or other Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Send to Docket Clerk, U.S. Department
similar energy assistance program must Consumer Services. of Agriculture, Food Safety and
be quantifiable in order to confer [FR Doc. 2016–09114 Filed 4–19–16; 8:45 am] Inspection Service, Patriots Plaza 3,
eligibility for the heating and cooling BILLING CODE 3410–30–P
1400 Independence Avenue SW.,
standard utility allowance. A Mailstop 3782, Room 8–163A,
quantifiable payment is one that the Washington, DC 20250–3700.
State agency quantifies, in dollars. The DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE • Hand- or courier-delivered
State agency shall document the date submittals: Deliver to Patriots Plaza 3,
and receipt of a payment made under Food Safety and Inspection Service 355 E Street SW., Room 8–163B,
LIHEAA or other similar energy Washington, DC 20250–3700.
assistance program to ensure the 9 CFR Part 381 Instructions: All items submitted by
payment was received in the current mail or electronic mail must include the
[Docket No. FSIS–2015–0042]
month or the immediately preceding 12 Agency name and docket number FSIS–
months and exceeds $20 annually. In RIN 0583–ZA11 2015–0042. Comments received in
determining a household’s eligibility for response to this docket will be made
the HCSUA, State agencies shall not Eligibility of the Republic of Poland To available for public inspection and
consider anticipated receipt of a Export Poultry Products to the United posted without change, including any
payment to be an actual payment States personal information, to http://
received under the LIHEAA or other AGENCY: Food Safety and Inspection www.regulations.gov.
similar energy assistance program. Service, USDA. Docket: For access to background
However, for purposes of this subclause, documents or comments received, go to
ACTION: Proposed rule.
a State agency may consider a payment the FSIS Docket Room at Patriots Plaza
under the LIHEAA or other similar SUMMARY: The Food Safety and 3, 355 E Street SW., Room 8–164,
energy assistance program to be Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing Washington, DC 20250–3700 between
received by the household or on behalf to add the Republic of Poland (Poland) 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday
of the household if the household is to the list of countries in the regulations through Friday.
scheduled to receive the payment in the eligible to export poultry products to the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr.
current month. In a case where a United States. FSIS has reviewed Daniel Engeljohn, Assistant
payment is scheduled to be received in Poland’s poultry laws, regulations, and Administrator, Office of Policy and
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the current month and the payment is inspection system as implemented and Program Development; Telephone: (202)
not actually made within that month, has tentatively determined that they are 205–0495.
the State agency is responsible for equivalent to the Poultry Products SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
determining whether an overissuance Inspection Act (PPIA), the regulations
has occurred and, if so, establishing a implementing this statute, and the U.S. Background
claim against the household for any food safety system for poultry. FSIS is proposing to amend its
benefits issued in error in accordance Should this rule become final, poultry products inspection regulations
with the requirements at 7 CFR 273.18. slaughtered poultry, or parts or other to add Poland to the list of countries
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Document Created: 2016-04-20 01:51:40
Document Modified: 2016-04-20 01:51:40
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Proposed Rules | |
| Action | Proposed rule. | |
| Dates | Written comments must be received on or before June 20, 2016 to be assured of consideration. | |
| Contact | Sasha Gersten-Paal, Branch Chief, Certification Policy Branch, Program Development Division, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, Virginia 22302, 703-305-2507. | |
| FR Citation | 81 FR 23189 | |
| RIN Number | 0584-AE43 | |
| CFR Associated | Determining Household Eligibility and Benefit Levels and Income and Deductions |
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