On Oct. 31, 2024, FNS published the Food Distribution Programs: Improving Access and Parity Final Rule (the final rule). Through this memorandum, FNS is providing State distributing agencies, including Indian Tribal Organizations (ITOs), with initial implementation guidance and implementation dates for the provisions of the final rule that pertain to USDA Foods Disaster Assistance.

The majority of provisions in this final rule related to USDA Foods Disaster Assistance will take effect 60 days after publication on Dec, 30, 2024, and when required, must also be implemented by Dec. 30, 2024. However, the removal of the prohibition on the simultaneous provision of USDA Foods and Disaster-SNAP (D-SNAP) during a disaster is effective immediately, as of Oct. 31, 2024.

Attachment A, "USDA Foods Disaster Assistance Final Rule Provision Effective Immediately" 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, "Final Rule Provisions with Implementation Date of Dec. 30, 2024" 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

Attachment

• USDA Foods Disaster Assistance Final Rule Provision Effective Immediately
• Final Rule Provisions with Implementation Date of Dec. 30, 2024