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12VAC5-195

CHAPTER 195
VIRGINIA WIC PROGRAM

12VAC5-195-10

Part I
General Provisions

12VAC5-195-10. General authority.

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) was authorized as part of the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, Section 17 (42 USC §1786), to provide supplemental foods and nutrition education to pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women, infants and young children from families with inadequate income. The Virginia WIC Program is regulated by federal regulations published in the Code of Federal Regulations, 7 CFR Part 246, Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. The state regulations shall serve as a supplement to 7 CFR Part 246.

The WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program was established in 1992 as P. L. 102-314 to provide resources in the form of fresh, nutritious, unprepared foods (fruits, vegetables and cut herbs) from farmers' markets to WIC participants and to expand the awareness, use of and sales at farmers' markets. The Virginia WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program is regulated by federal regulations published in the Code of Federal Regulations, 7 CFR Part 248.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-20

12VAC5-195-20. Purpose.

A. The Virginia WIC Program serves women who are breastfeeding, pregnant or have just given birth; infants less than one year old; and children less than five years old. WIC participants must be Virginia residents and meet the financial and nutritional requirements.

B. The Virginia WIC Program provides special supplemental foods to eligible participants through a retailer delivery system (7 CFR 246.12). Food benefits are issued by local agencies to eligible participants using food instruments (7 CFR 246.10). Participants redeem their food instruments at any authorized retailer or entity. The state agency enters into an agreement with authorized stores (7 CFR 246.12(h)). This agreement identifies the obligations, rights and responsibilities of both the authorized retail store and the state agency. Retailers deposit these food instruments into their bank account. The state agency pays authorized retailers a reasonable dollar amount for the foods purchased, as listed on the deposited food instruments (7 CFR 246.12(h)(2)(3)).

C. The state agency shall promulgate policies, guidelines, manuals and training resources to facilitate operations of the Virginia WIC Program in accordance with its contractual agreement with Food Nutrition Service (FNS) (7 CFR 246.3); the guidelines and instructions issued by FNS in policy letters; and management evaluations and audits and the WIC Program State Plan of Operations.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-30

12VAC5-195-30. Definitions.

The following words and terms when used in this chapter shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"Administrative appeal" means the procedure through which applicants and/or retail stores may appeal a state agency's administrative action, including program disqualification, denied authorization and other termination reasons.

"Annualized income" means income amount covering a 12-month period used to determine financial eligibility for the WIC Program.

"Applicant" or "retail store applicant" means a sole proprietorship, a partnership, cooperative association or a corporation that is not currently authorized to accept WIC food instruments.

"Approved food list" means a brochure or method used by the WIC Program to communicate to eligible participants, retailers, local agencies and other interested parties which authorized supplemental foods may be purchased using WIC food instruments. The approved food list is a guide and must be used with the printed food instrument, which may identify specific brands or additional products not stated on the approved food list that may be purchased by participants.

"Authorization" means the process by which the state agency assesses, selects and enters into an agreement with stores that apply or subsequently reapply to be authorized.

"Automated clearinghouse" or "ACH credit" or "direct deposit" means a method used to reimburse stores for certain types of processed food instruments (i.e., "Over FI Max."). A credit is made to the store's designated bank account and routing number using the automated clearinghouse process.

"Business economic areas" or "BEAs" mean a categorization method established by the United States Department of Commerce – Bureau of Economic Analysis and used by the state agency to identify geographically similar trade and economic communities. Some more populated BEAs are further broken down into smaller subsets or peer groupings, based upon number of unique participants served by authorized stores.

"Caretaker" means a person designated by a parent or legal guardian to certify an infant/child, obtain and redeem food instruments and attend nutrition education. A caretaker may be any person who has detailed knowledge of the nutritional needs and eating habits of the infant/child. A parent or legal guardian may designate one caretaker per family ID nmber.

"Caseload" means the number of WIC participants assigned to a local agency by the state agency.

"Cash value food benefits" means a special food instrument that has been issued to eligible participants for a specific dollar amount that must be used to purchase fruits and vegetables. Unless stated otherwise, all references to food instruments include cash value food benefits, as well as food and formula food instruments.

"Enrollment" means the process all applicants and authorized stores must complete in order for a store to be eligible to accept WIC food instruments.

"Food instrument type" or "FI type" means a grouping of certain foods and formula together that is used for reimbursement purposes in a paper-based system.

"Image replacement document" or "IRD" means a legal copy of a deposited food instrument that is created and transmitted by a store's depository bank to the WIC Program's backend processor for payment consideration.

"Informal settlement meeting" means a meeting held with an authorized store or applicant representative and the state WIC director whose purpose is to review and clarify outstanding WIC Program administrative issues.

"Leave and earnings statement" or "LES" means the earnings statement for a member of the uniformed service.

"Legal guardian" means an individual who has been appointed by a court of law or the Department of Social Services, or other legal means, to have primary, physical custody of a minor. A legal guardian shall be authorized to provide eligibility information for an applicant, consent to medical treatment of the applicant, and shall be held legally bound if sanctions are imposed.

"Low volume retailer" means authorized stores that service on average a fewer number of participants than the performance standard, as established by the state agency.

"Peer group" means a classification of applicants and authorized stores into groups based on common characteristics or criteria that affect food prices for the purpose of applying appropriate competitive price criteria to stores at authorization and limiting payments for foods at competitive pricing levels.

"Postpayment review" means an analysis of paid food instruments redeemed by authorized retailers in order to determine if pricing and redemption discrepancies exist. Based upon this analysis, a vendor claim against the retail store may be established by the state agency.

"Prepayment edit" means a price adjustment made to the reimbursement level given to retailers. This editing process can be either automated or a manual screening of deposited food instruments done by an independent banking contractor, prior to releasing payment to authorized retail stores.

"Retailer" means a vendor, retail store, commissary or entity authorized by the Virginia WIC Program to accept WIC food instruments for the various types of foods listed on food instruments.

"Retailer agreement" means a written agreement that establishes the respective roles and responsibilities of the program and authorized retailers in complying with federal and state requirements.

"Sanctions" mean a penalty imposed by the state agency upon an authorized retailer for a specific violation outlined in the vendor manual or retailer agreement.

"State agency" means the Division of WIC and Community Nutrition Services that has the administrative responsibility for managing the Virginia WIC Program.

"Termination" means the act of ending a retail store's WIC Program authorization for administrative reasons that include but are not limited to a change of ownership, closed store, voluntary withdrawal, and noncompetitive prices.

"Unique participant" means the number of unduplicated individuals who have redeemed one or more food instruments at a retail store during a specific period.

"United States Department of Agriculture" or "USDA" means the federal agency that provides funding for the WIC Program on behalf of Congress.

"Vendor claim" means the state agency has determined an authorized store committed a violation of the retailer agreement that affects the payment status of one or several food instruments. The state agency may delay payment or establish a claim in the amount of the full purchase price of each food instrument that contained the overcharge or other error. The state agency will bill and recoup the funds paid against these improperly redeemed food instruments.

"Vendor manual" means a series of written documents that communicate administrative policies and procedures for the Virginia WIC Program that affect both authorized retailers and applicants. The Vendor Manual is part of the WIC Program State Plan that must be submitted and approved by USDA.

"Virginia Department of Health" or "VDH" means the state agency that oversees the Virginia WIC Program.

"Waiting list" means a list implemented by the state agency when the maximum caseload is reached.

"Warning" means one or more incidents of noncompliance with program requirements were documented. The state agency sends a written warning letter to the owner or store manager to advise him of any documented violations. A warning letter is not sent to the owner or store manager for selective documented violations that affect the integrity of the investigative process, including but not limited to overcharges, fraud, and forgery.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-40

12VAC5-195-40. (Reserved)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume , Issue , eff. Month dd, yyyy.

12VAC5-195-50

12VAC5-195-50. (Reserved)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume , Issue , eff. Month dd, yyyy.

12VAC5-195-60

12VAC5-195-60. (Reserved)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume , Issue , eff. Month dd, yyyy.

12VAC5-195-70

Part II
Participant Requirements

12VAC5-195-70. Eligibility requirements.

A. Adjunctive financial eligibility requirements. Adjunctive, or automatic income eligibility is determined pursuant to 7 CFR 246.7(d)(2)(vi)(A). Documentation is required as proof of participation in programs that qualify an applicant for adjunctive financial eligibility. The state agency also allows the following state-administered programs to be used in determining adjunctive income eligibility:

1. Family Access to Medical Insurance Security Plan (FAMIS) and a $2.00 co-pay level; and

2. FAMIS MOMS program.

B. Local agencies shall serve institutionalized applicants if they meet all eligibility requirements.

C. For determining income eligibility, local agency personnel shall use the applicant's current or annualized income, whichever is the best indication of circumstances.

D. In determining income eligibility, the state agency utilizes all income exclusions listed in 7 CFR 246.7.

E. Applicants who are not adjunctively financially eligible shall have financial eligibility determined using income guidelines equaling the income guidelines established under §9 of the National School Lunch Act for reduced price school meals per 7 CFR 246.7(d)(1).

F. An applicant claiming multiple fetuses shall have the stated number used at the time of certification, but is required to provide written verification by a physician or nurse practitioner working under the supervision of a physician within 90 days of certification.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-80

12VAC5-195-80. Proof of identification.

Applicants shall present proof of identification to obtain all WIC services and benefits. This includes but is not limited to certification and subsequent certification visits, food instrument issuance, special formula issuance, nutrition education and VOC transfers. The local agency shall only accept the following as proof of identification:

1. Valid Medicaid card/letter;

2. Social Security card;

3. Driver's license;

4. Birth certificate;

5. Marriage license;

6. Crib card for newborns;

7. Hospital card for newborns;

8. Military identification card or discharge papers (DD214);

9. Clinic/hospital record or ID;

10. TANF/welfare photo ID;

11. Refugee settlement papers;

12. Immigration or Naturalization Record (e.g., green card);

13. Passport/visa;

14. School records (ID or report card, enrollment or health record); and

15. WIC ID folder for infants of WIC participants at initial certification only.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-90

12VAC5-195-90. Proof of residency.

A. Applicants shall present proof of residency at initial certification and subsequent certification visits. Proof of residency shall be current and include the applicant's name. The local agency shall accept the following as proof of residency:

1. Utility bills;

2. Other business mail with a Virginia address;

3. Deed, mortgage, monthly mortgage statement or residential rental/lease agreement;

4. Valid Virginia drivers license;

5. Valid Medicaid Card or positive, official Medicaid Verification; or

6. TANF/Welfare Photo ID.

B. Proof of residency for military personnel shall be current and include the applicant's name. The local agency shall accept the following as proof of residency for military personnel:

1. A letter from the company commander on official letterhead;

2. Copy of official Department of Defense orders with Virginia installation assignment; or

3. Leave and earning statement (LES) listing Virginia as the service member's home of record.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-100

12VAC5-195-100. Proxy.

A. A participant, parent or legal guardian may have the privilege, but not the right, to designate a maximum of two proxies. A proxy may accept and redeem food instruments. The proxy must attend nutrition education to obtain food instruments. The participant and proxy are not required to be present together when the participant designates the proxy. The parent is encouraged to be the primary recipient of all WIC instruments.

B. Local agency personnel shall only discuss the option of designating a proxy if the participant, parent or legal guardian indicates one of the following situations:

1. The participant, parent or legal guardian expresses difficulty with attending the local agency for nutrition education WIC instruments;

2. The local agency determines difficulty with the participant, parent or legal guardian attending the local agency through objective methods such as the no show reports, missed appointments, or frequently rescheduled appointments; or

3. The local agency determines difficulty with the participant, parent or legal guardian attending the local agency during established alternative hours.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-110

12VAC5-195-110. Caretaker.

A. A parent or legal guardian may have the privilege, but not the right, to designate one caretaker per family ID number to certify an infant or child, to obtain and redeem food instruments, and to attend nutrition education. The caretaker assumes all of the rights and responsibilities of the parent or legal guardian who designates them. A caretaker shall be designated only when the local agency cannot accommodate the needs of the parent to attend the local agency to obtain WIC benefits. Reasons supporting the designation of a caretaker shall be documented and become part of the participant's record. The authority to implement the caretaker policy will be granted individually to local agencies. The parent is always encouraged to be the primary recipient of all WIC benefits.

B. Local agency personnel shall only discuss the option of designating a caretaker if the participant, parent or legal guardian indicates one of the following situations:

1. The participant, parent or legal guardian expresses difficulty with attending the local agency for nutrition education WIC benefits;

2. The local agency determines difficulty with the participant, parent or legal guardian attending the local agency through objective methods such as the no show reports, missed appointments, or frequently rescheduled appointments; or

3. The local agency determines difficulty with the participant, parent or legal guardian attending the local agency during established alternative hours.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-120

12VAC5-195-120. Certification.

A. The certification process begins when an applicant contacts the local agency to make an oral or written request for WIC benefits.

B. A local agency may choose to serve participants who live outside of their local agency geographic area, but within the state, in cases of hardship.

C. Breastfeeding women shall be certified up to the last day of the month in which her infant turns one year old or until the woman ceases breastfeeding, whichever occurs first.

D. Infants shall be certified up to their first birthday.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-130

12VAC5-195-130. Nutritional risk priority system.

The state agency places pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum women, infants and children who are at nutritional risk solely because of homelessness and migrancy in Priority VII, per 7 CFR 246.7. The state agency does not expand or adjust any other priority level listed in 7 CFR 246.7.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-140

12VAC5-195-140. Food instruments.

A. Food instrument issuance. All food instruments shall be issued through the automated system after eligibility has been documented and only when the participant, parent or legal guardian, caretaker or proxy is physically present at the local agency to pick up their food instrument. Failure by the participant, parent, legal guardian, caretaker or proxy to attend the initial nutrition education appointment may result in reduced WIC benefits for that month.

B. Lost food instruments. Replacement of lost, valid, not redeemed food instruments shall only occur once within the entire duration of the participant, parent, caretaker or legal guardian's receipt of WIC services, unless approval is obtained from the state agency. Lost food instruments shall only be replaced for one of the following situations:

1. A participant leaving home because of family violence;

2. A change in full legal custody, including when infants/children are removed from home and placed in foster care or parental custody is changed; or

3. An event out of the control of participant, such as a fire or natural disaster that is publicly documented.

C. Stolen food instruments. Food instruments reported as stolen shall only be replaced when a police report is provided that states that the valid, not redeemed, WIC food instruments were the stolen items. Stolen food instruments shall not be replaced without a police report, unless costs are associated with the police report and a waiver is granted by the state agency. Stolen food instruments shall only be replaced once within the entire duration of the participant, parent, caretaker or legal guardian's receipt of WIC services, unless approval is obtained from the state agency.

D. Mailing WIC food instruments. Food instruments shall only be mailed with prior approval from the competent professional authority for individual participants if the participant has already received the required secondary nutrition education contact or if the participant will be able to receive nutrition education at the next visit within the certification period. Justification for mailing food instruments to individuals, families and groups includes:

1. Illness or disability as documented by medical records and meeting the Americans with Disabilities Act criteria (28 CFR Part 35) for physically unable to be present;

2. Imminent childbirth as documented by medical records;

3. Distance to travel, especially in rural areas with a minimum 60-mile roundtrip travel distance between home and the local WIC clinic, as approved by local WIC coordinator;

4. Other travel distance for participants with unique transportation challenges;

5. Computer failure at the local agency site;

6. Natural disasters; and

7. Complete systemwide failure of automated system.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-150

12VAC5-195-150. Alternative office hours.

Alternative office hours shall be offered outside of the regular operating hours of Monday through Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to address barriers in accessing WIC services for current and potential applicants and participants. The local agency shall provide documentation to the state agency that the alternative hours accommodate the needs of the current client caseload.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-160

12VAC5-195-160. Waiting lists.

The state agency shall provide local agencies with approval before waiting lists are implemented.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-170

12VAC5-195-170. Termination.

Participants who fail to obtain food instruments for 90 days after the last date to spend during a certification period shall be automatically terminated from the WIC Program.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-180

12VAC5-195-180. Fair hearing.

A. The Virginia WIC Program is a federally administered program. The following fair hearing procedures are a federal process with which the state agency must comply. Pursuant to 7 CFR 246.9(a), the state agency shall provide a hearing procedure through which any individual may appeal a state or local agency action that results in a claim against the individual for repayment of the cash value of improperly issued benefits or results in the individual's denial of participation or disqualification from the program.

B. The local agency shall inform each individual in writing of the right to a fair hearing at the time of a claim against an individual for improperly issued benefits or at the time of participation denial or of disqualification from the program.

C. A fair hearing shall be requested within 60 days of the written notification date of program denial, termination of benefits or claim against an individual for improperly issued benefits. The request shall be made in any clear expression to present the case to a higher authority.

D. Participants who appeal the termination of benefits within 60 days must continue to receive WIC benefits until the hearing officer reaches a decision, the participant becomes categorically ineligible, or the certification period expires, whichever comes first.

E. Applicants who are denied WIC benefits at the initial certification or because of the expiration of their certification may appeal the denial but shall not receive benefits while awaiting the hearing decision.

F. The local agency shall:

1. Accept a fair hearing request verbally or in writing;

2. Contact the applicant or participant to schedule a preliminary conference within 10 calendar days of the fair hearing request; and

3. Inform the applicant or participant that a fair hearing will be conducted if the issue is not resolved at a preliminary conference.

If the issue is resolved at the conference, the applicant or participant shall sign a statement indicating that a formal fair hearing is no longer requested. If the issue is not resolved at the conference, the local agency shall contact the state agency to schedule a fair hearing.

G. A fair hearing will be held within 21 days of the request, unless delayed pursuant to subsection I or J, or by mutual agreement of the parties.

H. The state agency shall provide 10 days advanced written notice of the date, time and place of the hearing, which shall be held in the local agency at which the participant or applicant receives WIC Program services.

I. The participant or applicant must appear at the fair hearing in person, but may be accompanied by a representative such as a relative, friend, legal counsel or other spokesperson. The applicant or participant must indicate whether or not they will be represented by an attorney when the fair hearing request is made. The applicant or participant must also provide the state agency with copies of any written information to be used during the hearing and names of witnesses that will be called at least five days prior to the scheduled fair hearing. Failure to notify the state agency of these items may result in a rescheduled date and time for the fair hearing or the exclusion of documents and witnesses from the fair hearing.

J. The participant or applicant will have one opportunity to reschedule the fair hearing's date or time. All requests to reschedule the meeting date or time must be submitted in writing at least 24 hours before the scheduled meeting date unless an emergency occurs, as determined at the discretion of the state WIC director or designee.

K. If the participant or applicant is more than 45 minutes late from the agreed upon hearing start time, then this will be considered a "no show" unless they can provide documentation the state WIC director determines justifies the participant's or applicant's tardiness or failure to appear. This outcome means that the participant or applicant has forfeited his rights to a fair hearing.

L. Pursuant to 7 CFR 246.9(j), the state or local agency shall provide the participant, applicant, or representative an opportunity to:

1. Examine, prior to and during the hearing, the documents and records presented to support the decision under appeal, which will be sent to the applicant or participant 10 days prior to the fair hearing;

2. Be assisted or represented by an attorney or other persons;

3. Bring witnesses;

4. Advance arguments without undue interference;

5. Question or refute any testimony or evidence, including an opportunity to confront and cross examine adverse witnesses; and

6. Submit evidence to establish all pertinent facts and circumstances in the case.

M. The hearing officer shall hear evidence and testimony and reach a decision. The hearing officer shall notify the applicant or participant, the state WIC director, and the district health director of the decision in writing within 45 days of the date of the fair hearing request.

1. Applicants denied benefits may be enrolled upon receipt of a favorable decision.

2. Participants whose benefits were previously denied or discontinued may receive or reapply for WIC benefits upon receipt of a favorable decision by the hearing officer.

N. The local agency and state agency shall keep the results of the hearing on file for five years.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-190

12VAC5-195-190. Fair hearing request denial or dismissal.

Per 7 CFR 246.9(f), the state and local agencies shall not deny or dismiss a request for a hearing unless:

1. The request is not received within the time limit set by the state agency;

2. The request is withdrawn in writing by the appellant or a representative of the appellant;

3. The appellant or representative fails, without good cause, to appear at the scheduled hearing; or

4. The appellant has been denied participation by a previous hearing and cannot provide evidence that circumstances relevant to program eligibility have changed in such a way as to justify a hearing.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-200

12VAC5-195-200. Program abuse and sanctions.

A. The state agency determines program abuse and sanctions that may be issued to applicants and participants. When more than one abuse is involved at a time, the sanction shall be based on the more serious abuse.

B. If an abuse occurs more than 12 months after the last abuse, the local agency shall process the abuse as a first offense.

C. When more than three abuses in a 12-month period occur, the local agency shall issue a three-month temporary disqualification.

D. Program abuses and assigned sanctions are as follows:


Abuse

Number of Offenses

Sanction

Class I

Any deliberate misrepresentation of income, name, residence, family size, medical data, or date of birth to obtain WIC benefits

All

Three-month disqualification

Dual participation – redeeming food instruments from two programs/agencies in same month

All

One-year disqualification

Assessed claim for $100 or more

All

One-year disqualification

Assessed second or subsequent claim for any amount

2nd or subsequent

One-year disqualification

Attempting to steal or actually stealing food instruments from the local agency or another participant, if under $100

All

Three-month disqualification

Selling, exchanging or giving away food instruments, food, or formula

All

Three-month disqualification

Redeeming WIC food instruments reported as lost or stolen, if under $100

All

Three-month disqualification

Attempting to redeem or redeeming WIC food instruments for nonfood items (i.e., diapers, wine, cigarettes)

All

Three-month disqualification

Physically abusing the WIC or store staff (An incidence of physical abuse of WIC or store staff/property should be reported to the police)

All

Three-month disqualification

Accepting cash or credit from a store in connection with a WIC transaction

1st

One-month disqualification

2nd

Two-month disqualification

3rd

Three-month disqualification

Alteration of WIC food instruments (includes date, quantities, types of food)

1st

One-month disqualification

2nd

Two-month disqualification

3rd

Three-month disqualification

Class II

Creating a public nuisance at the local agency or the store (i.e., verbally abusing, harassing, or threatening WIC or store staff, destroying store merchandise, or disrupting normal local agency or store activities)

1st

Warning letter

2nd

Two-month disqualification

3rd

Three-month disqualification

Attempting to redeem or redeeming WIC food instruments for unauthorized food, formula or food amounts

1st

Warning letter

2nd

Two-month disqualification

3rd

Three-month disqualification

Allowing unauthorized person(s) to use the WIC ID Folder to pick-up and/or redeem WIC food instruments

1st

Warning letter

2nd

Two-month disqualification

3rd

Three-month disqualification

Deliberately damaging or destroying WIC food instruments

1st

Warning letter

2nd

Two-month disqualification

3rd

Three-month disqualification

Redeeming WIC food instruments before or after valid spend dates

1st

Warning letter

2nd

One-month disqualification

3rd

Two-month disqualification

Attempting to redeem or redeeming food instruments at unauthorized stores

1st

Warning letter

2nd

One-month disqualification

3rd

Two-month disqualification

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-210

12VAC5-195-210. Collection of improperly issued instruments/claims against participants.

The state agency may establish a claim against a participant for the full value of benefits improperly obtained or disposed of and any fees or additional expenses incurred. These improper acts include, but are not limited to:

1. Inaccurate certification information;

2. Dual participation violations;

3. Proxy abuses; or

4. Retention of future food instruments after disqualification.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-220

12VAC5-195-220. Interruption of benefits.

A. The state agency may discontinue benefits to participants due to funding shortages.

B. Local agencies shall only implement an interruption of benefits as specified by written direction from the state agency.

C. The state agency shall exercise its federal authority to limit participation to high priorities in the case of funding shortages.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-230

12VAC5-195-230. Conflict of interest.

A. Individuals involved in administering the WIC Program may not:

1. Act as a proxy for a participant; or

2. Have a financial interest in an authorized WIC retail store.

B. Individuals involved in administering the WIC Program shall not certify or issue food instruments to themselves or relatives. Relatives include spouses, parents, children, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, grandparents and grandchildren.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-240

12VAC5-195-240. Emergency situations.

Local agencies shall follow emergency procedures in the event of an emergency situation. Procedures to continue WIC benefits shall be incorporated by the local agency into the district Office Emergency and Business Recovery Plan.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-250

12VAC5-195-250. (Reserved)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume , Issue , eff. Month dd, yyyy.

12VAC5-195-260

12VAC5-195-260. (Reserved)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume , Issue , eff. Month dd, yyyy.

12VAC5-195-270

12VAC5-195-270. (Reserved)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume , Issue , eff. Month dd, yyyy.

12VAC5-195-280

Part III
Vendor Requirements

12VAC5-195-280. Enrollment procedures.

A. The state agency accepts applications from new store applicants year round.

B. Stores seeking authorization shall sell a range and variety of staple foods and WIC-approved formulas at a permanent fixed location, as specified in the retailer agreement and application package. Only one authorization approval will be granted by the state agency to each eligible location selected for program authorization. Stand-alone pharmacies and any other types of entities that cannot meet all of the general requirements outlined in this section will be denied WIC Program authorization.

C. Store applicants shall complete the following requirements to become authorized for WIC Program participation:

1. Submit all applications, including pricing updates, using an electronic, Internet-based method that has been approved by the WIC Program;

2. Submit prices for all mandatory food and formula items, a signed retailer agreement, supplemental informational form, direct deposit ACH form, and other required forms as deemed necessary to evaluate a retailer's or applicant's qualifications;

3. Pass a competitiveness price assessment completed by the WIC Program. The state agency shall determine that the prices submitted as part of the new store application process are price competitive when compared to other stores located in the store's assigned peer group;

4. Provide documentation to the state agency, upon request, that a satisfactory business integrity record exists. None of the store's current owners, officers, or managers shall have been convicted of or had a civil judgment entered against them for conduct demonstrating a lack of business integrity, within the past six years;

5. Pass an unannounced onsite visit to determine if the store has the minimum stocking requirement, has available for sale the variety and selection of foods as stated on the supplemental informational form, and has posted prices that are not higher than prices submitted as part of the application process. The visit shall also verify that the store's hours of operation were accurately reported;

6. Pass an onsite visit to determine if the type and variety of foods sold would qualify the store to earn more than 50% of its annual sales solely from the WIC Program. If the store is likely to be an above 50% vendor, then it shall be denied authorization;

7. Attend a mandatory new store training session conducted by either state agency staff or a certified corporate trainer within 30 calendar days after the retail store passes a stocking and price verification visit. Provide documentation to the state agency that this mandatory training has been completed. Store applicants shall provide to the state agency this documentation within 30 calendar days after meeting all other enrollment requirements;

8. Provide training to store personnel and cashiers on proper WIC food instrument handling procedures; and

9. Receive from the state agency an authorization acknowledgement letter granting WIC Program authorization, a Vendor Manual for the Virginia WIC Program, a WIC window decal, and an authorization stamp.

D. Newly authorized stores shall begin accepting WIC food instruments within 15 calendar days after receiving their program authorization stamp and final acknowledgment letter. Authorized stores are required to contact the state agency in writing if the store will be unable to meet this program requirement. Failure to begin accepting WIC food instruments within the established time frame may lead to the state agency's withdrawing its authorization decision.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-290

12VAC5-195-290. Communications.

A. Authorized stores shall contact the state agency or their assigned agency representative rather than local WIC agency staff for all questions related to WIC Program participation including, but not limited to, retail store selection and authorization requirements and decisions, reimbursement questions, participant's food instrument prescriptions, and complaints.

B. Authorized stores shall provide at least 15 calendar days written notice if the retailer desires to terminate its participation in the WIC Program or when the retailer ceases operation, changes ownership, or for any other circumstances that impacts service delivery including, but not limited to, relocations, renovations, permanent or temporary closures.

C. The state agency regularly communicates policy and procedural changes, training issues, WIC food instrument processing tips, cashier reminders and alerts affecting retail stores in an informational newsletter. Annually, a newsletter is published and sent to all authorized retail stores to update store personnel on major program changes. The program posts, if applicable, approved policy changes on its external webpage. Authorized stores shall be held accountable for complying with all policy changes communicated in writing by the state agency.

D. Written correspondence retained in the state agency's centralized files located in Richmond, Virginia, pertaining to, but not limited to, a store's authorization status, application documentation or WIC and food stamps compliance history is confidential and is protected under federal regulations (7 CFR 246.26(e)). The state agency shall maintain stores' compliance history and background information for at least a three-year period or the contract period, whichever is longer. For civil judgments and food stamp administrative documentation issued against a specific authorized retailer, the state agency will retain this documentation for six years.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-300

12VAC5-195-300. General requirements and conditions for authorization.

A. Once enrolled, a store or applicant shall obtain authorization to operate as a WIC-authorized store from the state agency before accepting or redeeming food instruments.

B. To obtain authorization and remain authorized, retailers shall:

1. Be food stamp authorized at the time of application or reauthorization and remain in good standing;

2. Be currently WIC-authorized or eligible for authorization after meeting a WIC disqualification requirement, if applicable;

3. Be in operation as a business at the time of application or within 45 calendar days of application;

4. Meet all local, state and federal requirements, including sanitation and building code regulations;

5. Be necessary as determined by the state agency to ensure adequate participant access;

6. Submit prices to the WIC Program using an electronic, Internet-based method at least twice a year or as requested by the state agency;

7. Remain price competitive when compared to other authorized stores that are located in the same peer group;

8. Maintain a minimum number of unique participants served after one year of continuous program authorization;

9. Meet the mandatory minimum stocking requirement at all times and keep such stock in the customer shopping area or immediately available onsite;

10. Be located at the store address indicated in the state agency's application or authorization record; this address shall be the sole location at which WIC customers purchase supplemental foods and formulas;

11. Be open for business at least 50 hours per week;

12. Meet all business integrity criteria as defined in Policy 14.1, effective August 1, 2003, of the Vendor Manual for the Virginia WIC Program;

13. Provide supporting documentation to the state agency including, but not limited to, annual food sales information or tax records that will be used to ensure that not more than 50% of the store's total food sales were derived from WIC sales;

14. Comply with all financial and corrective actions identified from prior WIC authorization, if applicable;

15. Purchase contract and special formula from a distributor, supplier, wholesaler or retail store whose name is listed by the Virginia WIC Program as approved to sell formula; and

16. Participate in the WIC Program's direct deposit (ACH) process used for reimbursement purposes.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-310

12VAC5-195-310. Above 50% vendor screening.

A. The state agency shall not authorize any applicant or retail store that is likely to derive 50% or more of its annual food sales from the sale of supplemental foods to WIC participants. Stores already authorized by the program whose annual WIC food sales rise to 50% or more of their total food sales will have their authorization status terminated.

B. Newly authorized stores with six months of redemption history shall have their status reviewed to determine if they qualify as an above 50% vendor (7 CFR 246.12(g)(4)(i)(B)). If the state agency's assessment determines the store qualifies as an above 50% vendor, the store's WIC Program authorization status shall be terminated.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-320

12VAC5-195-320. Retailer agreement.

A. The retailer agreement does not constitute a license or a property right. If an authorized store wishes to continue to be authorized beyond the current agreement period, the store must reapply for authorization. All stores must be selected under the current selection and authorization criteria being used by the state agency (7 CFR 246.12(h)(xxi)).

B. Authorized retail stores and military commissaries shall use a single uniform retailer agreement. The maximum duration of the retailer agreement shall not exceed three years. The duration of the retailer agreement may be for a period that is less than three years, depending upon when a county or location is selected to undergo the regional authorization and selection process.

C. A fully executed retailer agreement shall be signed by both an authorized store representative and state agency representative to be enforceable. The state agency shall provide the store or designated contact person a copy of its signed retailer agreement or authorization acknowledgement letter once all selection and authorization requirements have been met.

D. A signed retailer agreement must be on file for any store to be paid for a redeemed WIC food instrument.

E. Revisions, amendments or modifications to the provisions of the retailer agreement shall be made in writing. The retailer agreement shall be automatically amended upon notice from the state agency should federal, state laws or regulations require amendments.

F. Authorized stores shall keep a copy of the updated Vendor Manual, including a copy of the Approved Food list and Cashier Training Guide, at the store location authorized to accept WIC food instruments.

G. The state agency reserves the right to extend the current retailer agreement up to six months during the reauthorization evaluation process. If the state agency uses this option, it shall provide written notice to authorized stores affected by this administrative decision.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-330

12VAC5-195-330. Adequate participant access.

A. The state agency shall ensure that adequate participant access exists so that eligible participants may redeem the food instruments issued to them. The state agency uses a retailer limiting criteria to determine adequate participant access (7 CFR 246.12(g)(2)). The state agency has the sole authority to define adequate participant access criteria.

B. The number of authorized stores or retailer slots available is based on two factors:

1. Number of WIC participants living in a specific city or county in which the retail store is physically located; and

2. Population density of the community where the store is physically located.

C. Population density is calculated by identifying the population that resides in a specific city or county. Population density serves as a proxy indicator used by the program to project how close together retailers and participants are located next to each other. Thus densely populated areas where stores are located closer together require fewer stores to provide adequate participant access.

D. In sparsely populated areas, both population and stores are dispersed over a wider geographical area that directly impacts participant access. More sparsely populated areas require more authorized stores to adequately serve eligible participants.

E. Participation is managed and monitored by the WIC Program on a monthly basis. For this reason the number of available slots for authorized stores may change frequently. This change will not impact stores already authorized, but may impact a new store applying for authorization in a given area.

F. The number of authorized retailers or retailer slots available is calculated by a store to participant ratio, which is higher for densely populated communities, and lower for sparsely populated counties. Population density data is updated annually by the state agency and is obtained from the United States Census Bureau. The WIC Program uses a single population density indicator to identify which communities have the higher retailer to participant ratio.

G. A specific number of retailer slots will be allocated to each city/county. A listing of retailer slots available and allocated to each city and county will not be published and distributed to authorized stores, since this figure may change frequently.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-340

12VAC5-195-340. Competitive pricing.

A. Authorized stores and applicants shall submit pricing information to the state agency. Item pricing data is obtained from authorized stores and applicants from prices that have been entered into a WIC-approved Internet-based application.

B. The state agency collects pricing information for specific food items at least twice a year (7 CFR 246.12(g)(4)(ii)(B)). Prices may be collected more frequently from authorized stores including, but not limited to, the following reasons:

1. A store's prices are determined to be noncompetitive;

2. A store is designated a high risk retailer;

3. A competitive pricing analysis is needed in order to consider an applicant's qualifications;

4. An administrative review is being conducted as part of a compliance investigation, participant access analysis, inventory audit or post payment analysis; or

5. Other operational considerations that may occur including, but not limited to, a change in contract formula company, food industry price fluctuations, manufacturer's price increases for "rebateable" products, such as contract formula and infant cereal.

C. Applicants whose prices are determined to be noncompetitive when compared with other authorized stores assigned to the same peer group shall be denied WIC Program authorization. These applicants shall not be given a second opportunity to resubmit their prices, unless the state agency determines that inadequate participant access would exist.

D. The state agency uses nine business economic areas (BEAs) to initially define peer groups based on location and economic variations. For more densely populated BEAs, a second criterion used to further define peer groups is the number of unique participants served (7 CFR 246.12(g)(4)(ii)(A)). Each authorized store or applicant is assigned to a single peer group.

Business Economic Areas (ID)
(# of Unique Participants Served, if applicable)

Peer Group

Cities & Counties Located in each BEA

49

10

Accomack & Northampton Counties

66

11

Cities: Danville, Galax City, & Martinsville and Counties: Carroll, Grayson, Henry, Patrick & Pittsylvania

71

12

Cities: Buena Vista, Harrisonburg, Lexington, Staunton & Waynesboro and Counties: Augusta, Bath, Highland, Page, Rockbridge & Rockingham

81

13

Cities: Bristol & Norton and Counties: Buchanan, Dickerson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington & Wise

133

14

Halifax County

137
(0 – 100 participants)

15

Cities: Charlottesville, Colonial Heights, Emporia, Hopewell, Petersburg, & Richmond and Counties: Albemarle, Amelia, Brunswick, Buckingham, Caroline, Charles City, Charlotte, Chesterfield, Cumberland, Dinwiddie, Essex, Fluvanna, Goochland, Greene, Greensville, Hanover, Henrico, King and Queen, King William, Lancaster, Louisa, Lunenburg, Mecklenburg, Middlesex, Nelson, New Kent, Northumberland, Nottoway, Powhatan, Prince Edward, Prince George, Richmond & Sussex

137
(101 – 250 participants)

16

137
(251 and up participants)

17

138
(0 – 100 participants)

25

Cities: Bedford, Clifton Forge, Covington, Lynchburg, Radford, Roanoke & Salem and Counties: Alleghany, Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, Bland, Botetourt, Campbell, Craig, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Montgomery, Pulaski, Roanoke & Wythe

138
(101 – 250 participants)

26

138
(251 and up participants)

27

173
(0 – 100 participants)

35

Cities: Chesapeake, Franklin, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Poquoson, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Virginia Beach & Williamsburg and Counties: Gloucester, Isle of Wight, James City, Mathews, Southampton, Surry & York

173
(101 – 250 participants)

36

173
(251 and up participants)

37

174
(0 – 100 participants)

45

Cities: Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Fredericksburg, Manassas, Manassas Park & Winchester and Counties: Arlington, Clarke, Culpeper, Fairfax, Fauquier, Frederick, King George, Loudoun, Madison, Orange, Prince William, Rappahannock, Shenandoah, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Warren & Westmoreland

174
(101 – 250 participants)

46

174
(251 and up participants)

47

E. For newly authorized stores the peer group designation assigned during the first three months is determined by the first criterion only; specifically the store's BEA default location. This default location, if applicable, is the peer group that services 0-100 unique participants. Authorized stores' peer group designation may change, based upon increases or decreases in the monthly average number of unique WIC participants being served by the store.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-350

12VAC5-195-350. Price verification.

A. Authorized stores and applicants must submit prices for all mandatory foods and formulas as defined by the state agency. Once prices have been submitted to the WIC Program, they must remain valid for at least a 30-day period and are subject to random onsite verification by the state agency. Posted prices that are significantly above what was submitted to the state agency may affect the store's or applicant's authorization selection status.

B. A store or applicant's submitted price shall be compared by the state agency to other authorized stores assigned to the same peer group in order to determine if the prices submitted are competitive. Prices shall be submitted and validated as competitive for specific food items and formulas eligible for payment to the authorized store location.

C. Authorized stores and applicants shall have a pricing point value that is 40 or higher in order to remain eligible for program authorization.

Description

Price Comparison Range

Pricing Point Value

Best Pricing

Peer Group Average, minus 10% or more

100

Highly Competitive

Peer Group Average, minus 5.1 - 9.9%

80

More Competitive Pricing

Peer Group Pricing Average, plus or minus 5.0%

60

Competitive

Peer Group Pricing Average, plus 5.1 – 9.9%

40

Noncompetitive

Peer Group Pricing Average, plus 10.0 or higher

20

D. Authorized stores whose prices are identified as noncompetitive when compared with other authorized stores assigned to the same peer group within a BEA may have their WIC Program authorization terminated, unless inadequate participant access would exist.

E. Authorized stores that fail to submit a price for optional food and formula items may have redeemed food instruments selected as ineligible for payment as part of the postpayment review process. These improperly redeemed food instruments may be identified as a vendor claim and be subject to repayment of the full amount paid for all of the items prescribed on the food instrument.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-360

12VAC5-195-360. Selection decisions.

A. All retailers and applicants will compete equally for available slots located within a specific city/county or zip code, if applicable. The state agency reviews the qualifications of authorized stores and applicants located in a specific BEA or city/county within a BEA to make authorization selection decisions. Retail stores' and applicants' mandatory women and infant food and formula items used for pricing analysis purposes must qualify under the price competitive category of 40 or higher in order to be selected for authorization (7 CFR 246.12(g)(4)).

Low volume retailers will not be considered for reauthorization unless slots remain available after all qualified applicants and stores are selected for authorization and the low volume retailers have a competitive price score of 100. Low volume retailers will not be included in the ranking of the applicants and stores.

The state agency shall rank all stores that have a pricing point value of 40 or higher in ascending order, or lowest price to highest price. The stores that have the lowest total prices are considered the best qualified stores. Applicant's and store's ranking will be used to select applicants and stores for all available slots located within a specific BEA or city/county within a BEA.

B. When multiple stores have equal rankings and there are not enough slots to authorize all such stores, rankings will be further differentiated based on the following criteria in order of their application:

1. Five bonus points are given for retailers that are certified by the Department of Minority Business Enterprise as a minority or women-owned business or have met their annual federally mandated training requirement by completing all modules of an agency-sponsored online (E-Learning) WIC Program training course.

2. When equal rankings still occur, stores with the lowest prices for selective special formulas that are eligible to be sold to WIC participants will be offered any available slots.

3. If rankings continue to be equal, the state agency shall offer available slots to the authorized store or applicant with the highest number of unique participants who reside in the zip code where the store is located.

4. If rankings continue to be equal, square footage, excluding storage space, will be used to determine which stores will be offered available slots.

After selecting all of the best qualified stores and applicants, if slots are still available, then low volume retailers whose total pricing score is 100 – Best Pricing will be offered any available slots.

C. If a retail store or applicant is not competitively selected for program authorization, then the store may apply again no sooner than six months after being denied authorization.

D. The state agency shall send all authorized stores and applicants a written notice pertaining to their selection status. All stores and applicants being denied WIC Program authorization shall also receive information that explains their right to appeal the state agency's administrative decision.

E. The state agency does not maintain an applicant waiting list.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-370

12VAC5-195-370. Authorization exception decisions.

The state agency may adjust the number of retail stores authorized to ensure that adequate participant access exists. Only the state agency shall determine what constitutes adequate participant access. The state agency may make authorization exceptions to ensure that adequate access exists based on one or several of the following criteria:

1. Provide reasonable access;

2. Provide safe access due to a physical barrier or impediment including, but not limited to, a multilane highway, river, bridge; physical terrain (i.e., mountains);

3. Provide a best pricing or highly competitive alternative store location to eligible participants to purchase WIC-approved food, when compared to other available stores located within a given city and/or county;

4. Promote competition in a trade area previously identified as not having a price competitive authorized retail store location available;

5. Improve customer service or remove an existing service barrier, i.e., language, cultural;

6. Improve WIC customer access due to the fact that the store is within a safe and reasonable walking distance and is located in close proximity to one or several low income housing units where WIC participants reside; or

7. Provide supporting documentation that the store's draw area is broader than the store's immediate trade area. The store's draw area includes cities and counties that cross geographical boundaries.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-380

12VAC5-195-380. Low volume performance standard.

A. After six months of continuous authorization, authorized retailers shall serve a monthly average of at least 60 unique participants. Retail stores that fail to meet this low volume performance standard will be notified annually. An authorized store that has an average number of unique participants served that is lower than the standard will be considered a low volume retailer.

B. Authorized stores that demonstrate a consistent pattern of failing to meet the low volume performance standard shall be denied WIC Program authorization when their selection status is evaluated for future program authorization, unless inadequate participant access would exist. Previously authorized stores that are not selected due to low volume will receive a written letter of this administrative decision, which will provide a termination effective date.

C. Store applicants that were denied WIC Program authorization due to being designated a low volume retailer from a previous authorization period shall not be approved for authorization in a city/county that has slots available unless objective data is available that qualifies the store under one of the authorization exception criteria.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-390

12VAC5-195-390. Approved food list.

A. A copy of the current Virginia WIC Program's Approved Food List (effective January 1, 2007) must be stored at each cash register where WIC transactions are handled. A copy of the Approved Food List must also be stored in the Vendor Manual that shall be kept onsite at the authorized store location.

B. The Approved Food List is used in conjunction with the WIC food instrument to identify foods that are eligible for purchase by WIC participants. The food instrument may state specific manufacturers or brands that must be purchased by program participants that are not covered by the general description used in the Approved Food List.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-400

12VAC5-195-400. Authorization stamp – assignment and usage.

A. The state agency assigns a unique stamp number to stores that are authorized and eligible to receive reimbursement for deposited food instruments. The store's authorization number is imprinted on a rubber stamp, which shall be used on every food instrument deposited by the authorized store location. Failure by the retail store to use the issued authorization stamp may result in denied payment for redeemed WIC food instruments.

B. Authorized stores must obtain any needed replacement stamps from the stamp supplier approved by the state agency. The state agency will provide a maximum of three stamps to an authorized store per contract period at no charge. Failure to purchase an approved stamp from the designated stamp supplier may lead to deposited food instruments being rejected and returned unpaid by the state agency.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-410

12VAC5-195-410. Change of ownership.

A. Authorized retail stores shall provide the state agency with advance written notice of at least 15 calendar days prior to any change of ownership as outlined in 7 CFR 246.12(h)(3)(xvii).

B. A change of ownership occurs for reasons including, but not limited to, the principal owner or owners, corporate officers of the business or corporation have legally or permanently changed.

C. A store's authorization will become null and void upon a change of ownership. The rights and obligations established under a signed retailer's agreement with the WIC Program may not be transferred or assigned by the retail store or corporate owner to any other third party.

D. The new owner or store manager of the business/corporation shall apply for WIC Program authorization and submit their qualifications and a new application for evaluation based on the most current retailer selection and authorization criteria.

E. The state agency shall terminate the authorization status of any store that has undergone a change of ownership and failed to notify the state agency in accordance with the requirements outlined in the signed Retailer Agreement, effective July 1, 2008.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-420

12VAC5-195-420. Change of location.

A. Authorized WIC retail stores shall provide the state agency written notice of a store's relocation plans within 15 calendar days prior to scheduled move date. Failure to notify the state agency in writing of such actions may result in the state agency taking administrative action including terminating for cause the store's program authorization.

B. Relocation of a retail store is defined as:

1. The store's physical location changes within the same geographical area or county/city and there is no change in ownership or pricing structure. The store meets one of the following criteria:

a. New store location is two miles or less from the former location; or

b. Majority of management and store personnel will move to the new location. If the new location is greater than two miles, the WIC Program will evaluate on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the new location is an alternative location and qualifies as a relocation versus a new store authorization;

2. The store will be open for business within 15 calendar days or less after moving to a different physical location; and

3. The former store location will be permanently closed for business.

C. The state agency shall ensure that the new location still meets the selection criteria as outlined in the Retailer Selection and Authorization Policy (Policy 14.0 of the Virginia WIC Program Retailer Manual, effective April 1, 2008) including being price competitive. Failure to meet all selection criteria may lead to the store's authorization being terminated, unless inadequate participant access exists. Authorized stores that meet all selection criteria will be permitted by the state agency to continue their authorization without experiencing any disruption in their authorization status. The state agency must assign a new WIC authorization ID to the new store location.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-430

12VAC5-195-430. Change due to closure.

A. Authorized retail stores shall give the state agency written notice of a store's permanent or temporary closure within 15 calendar days before the actual closing date. A temporary closure is defined as a store location being closed to the public for more than 15 consecutive calendar days. Stores closed to the public for any reason greater than 30 consecutive calendar days will have their WIC Program authorization terminated.

B. Failure to notify the state agency in writing of either permanent or temporary closure may result in the state agency taking administrative action, including terminating for cause the store's WIC authorization status.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-440

12VAC5-195-440. Voluntary withdrawal.

Authorized retail stores shall give the state agency at least 15 calendar days written notice if the store owner or manager decides to discontinue participation in the Virginia WIC Program.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-450

12VAC5-195-450. Complaints.

A. The state agency shall maintain a system of receiving, documenting and investigating all complaints submitted by retail stores, participants, proxies, caretakers, parents, and the general public. From submitted complaints, the state agency may sanction or issue a written warning to participants and retail stores that abuse or misuse program benefits as outlined in the State Plan and Vendor Manual (Attachment to Policy 15.0, Sanction Classification System - Violation Schedule, effective May 26, 2008).

B. The state agency shall forward complaints of both alleged discrimination and civil rights violations to the Secretary of Agriculture as required by federal regulations.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-460

12VAC5-195-460. Conflict of interest.

Authorized retail store management shall ensure that no conflict of interest exists between any store personnel employed by the retailer and any local, state, or federal WIC agency. This includes, but may not be limited to, store employees or spouses of store owners who are also employees of a local, state, or federal WIC agency.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-470

12VAC5-195-470. Incentives.

Authorized stores may not provide incentives to local agency staff or participants to entice or promote shopping at a specific store location, unless approved in writing by the state agency.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-480

12VAC5-195-480. Participant confidentiality.

A. Participant information shall remain confidential to ensure compliance with federal regulations and to protect the right to privacy of WIC participants (7 CFR 246.26(a)).

B. Confidentiality requirements apply to information provided by a participant and that is based on direct observation by store personnel. Confidentiality requirements include, but are not limited to:

1. The prohibition of retailers from collecting personal information from WIC participants;

2. Making personal contacts with WIC participants after the WIC transaction has occurred; or

3. Sharing information on participant identification with third parties. Third parties do not include WIC Program state, local and federal agency representatives who have a legitimate business interest in the services provided to participants.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-490

12VAC5-195-490. Retailer confidentiality.

A. Background and pricing information collected by the state agency related to evaluating the authorization status of a store or collected from food instruments redeemed by an authorized store is confidential (7 CFR 246.26(e)) and can be released only to:

1. The store itself;

2. The parent corporation; or

3. Other governmental agencies responsible for ensuring program integrity, i.e., Food Stamp Program, Office of Inspector General, United States Department of Agriculture.

B. Upon receiving a written request from a store or their parent corporation, the state agency shall only release background and pricing information that has been provided by or pertains to the requestor. Under no circumstances will the state agency release confidential information about the authorization status or redemption revenue paid to stores owned by other corporations.

C. Authorized stores' peer group designation is confidential and is restricted from disclosure to persons and entities not directly associated with the authorized store location.

D. The state agency's inadequate participant access results completed for administrative purposes are considered confidential and not subject to review by the retail store or its agent, since this profile contains information protected by WIC Program regulations. Upon request, a copy of this work document can be released with any confidential information removed. This document in its entirety will be made available to appropriate governmental bodies that are responsible to ensure that the state agency has fully complied with any mandated WIC Program requirements.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-500

12VAC5-195-500. Sales tax and coupons.

Authorized retail stores shall ensure that no sales tax is charged to the WIC Program. Store coupons, manufacturer coupons and loyalty card discounts may be used for WIC-approved purchases. When a WIC participant uses a coupon or discount card in conjunction with a food instrument and an item is provided free, then sales tax shall be collected directly from the participant.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-510

12VAC5-195-510. Solicitation.

A. Authorized stores shall not:

1. Initiate behavior that may be deemed aggressive or intimidating by a reasonable person in approaching potential WIC participants in order to promote that participant's shop at a specific store location; or

2. Use any state or local agency facilities and property to post or distribute materials advertising their store location.

B. If the state agency documents that an authorized store violates either of these prohibitions, then the store's authorization may be subject to termination by the program.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-520

12VAC5-195-520. Training and education.

A. Training of applicants or authorized stores may be conducted by state agency staff. The state agency may also delegate full authority to individuals who have been certified as corporate trainers. Certified trainers shall attend at least one mandatory training class annually in order to remain certified.

B. The state agency shall provide mandatory annual training for previously authorized stores. The annual training requirement may be met by:

1. Submitting a newsletter training acknowledgement form;

2. Successfully completing an agency-sponsored Internet training course offered by the WIC Program; or

3. Attending an instructor-led, interactive training class.

C. Reauthorization training shall be required for previously authorized stores that have been selected under a new contract period.

D. Authorized stores can request remedial training at any time by contacting the state agency.

E. All authorized stores are required to have at least one store representative participate in annual training provided by either the state agency or a certified corporate trainer (7 CFR 246.12(h)(xi)).

F. Failure of an authorized store to meet any mandatory training requirement shall result in sanctions being imposed and the possible termination of the store's program authorization, unless inadequate participant access would exist.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-530

12VAC5-195-530. Use of acronym and logo.

A. Authorized stores shall post a "WIC Accepted Here" window decal in the store's front entrance or in a conspicuously visible location that identifies to the general public that the store location participates in the WIC Program. Authorized stores may use alternative signage if approved by the state agency prior to being used.

B. Retail stores, food manufacturers, distributors and suppliers shall receive written approval from the state agency prior to producing or distributing window decals, channel strips or shelf talkers that use either the WIC acronym or logo.

C. Retail stores or applicants shall not use either the acronym "WIC," "W.I.C." or the WIC logo, including close facsimiles thereof, in total or in part, either in their official name in which the store is registered or in the name under which it does business, if different.

D. Retail stores, food manufacturers, distributors and suppliers shall not use the WIC acronym or logo in the packaging of their products. Retail stores, food manufacturers, distributors and suppliers shall receive written approval from the state agency before using either the WIC acronym or logo for any business or public relations purpose.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-540

12VAC5-195-540. Vendor manual for the Virginia WIC Program.

All authorized stores must keep a current copy of the Vendor Manual for the Virginia WIC Program, Cashier Training Guide, and an Approved Food List at the store location authorized to participate in the program. A current copy of the Virginia Approved Food List must be kept at each cash register used to process WIC transactions.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-550

12VAC5-195-550. High risk stores.

A. The state agency classifies each authorized store as either high risk, probationary, or nonhigh risk. In accordance with federal regulations (7 CFR 246.12(j)(3)), high risk stores have demonstrated from prior authorization history a pattern of noncompliance with documented vendor management policies or violations documented from covert, undercover buys. The state agency may also change a store's designation to high risk based upon noncompliance documented from onsite monitoring visits.

The state agency may select stores for compliance monitoring based on statistical trends documented from a retail store's redemption pattern. A store's designation being changed to high risk will only occur as result of documented violations identified from compliance investigations or other types of objective monitoring practices used by the state agency.

All stores classified as high risk will receive written notification from the state WIC Program to advise them of the store's status change prior to the change becoming effective. Stores shall be designated high risk for a minimum one-year period and will have their status periodically evaluated by the state agency.

B. Authorized stores designated as high risk will be selected for more frequent onsite and covert monitoring investigations.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-560

12VAC5-195-560. Nonhigh risk stores.

Authorized stores that have participated in the WIC Program for more than one continuous year and have demonstrated an acceptable level of compliance in meeting program requirements are considered nonhigh risk stores.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-570

12VAC5-195-570. Probationary stores.

Newly authorized stores with less than one year of continuous program authorization shall be designated a probationary retailer. During a probationary store's first year it will be more frequently monitored through both unannounced and onsite monitoring visits, as well as being selected for at least one compliance investigation.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-580

12VAC5-195-580. Performance and administrative monitoring.

A. All applicants must successfully pass an unannounced stocking visit prior to being authorized. Applicants will receive a written letter from the state agency advising them the store has been selected for further authorization consideration. The applicant will receive a copy of the minimum stocking requirement and the letter sent to the store will identify the consequences associated with failing to meet this program standard.

B. The state agency monitors authorized store's performance throughout the contract period in order to ensure the best qualified stores are authorized. The type and level of monitoring conducted by the state agency depends upon the store's authorization status. Stores designated as high volume retailers, high risk retailers, and probationary stores are more likely to be selected for unannounced monitoring visits by the WIC Program.

C. Authorized stores that fail to consistently meet any of the general requirements and conditions for authorization may be terminated. Specific areas the state agency monitors include, but are not limited to:

1. Number of unique participants served;

2. Number of paid and rejected food instruments;

3. Prices charged for WIC-approved foods and formula;

4. Level of compliance in following program requirements; and

5. Use of approved wholesalers and suppliers in purchasing WIC-approved foods and formulas.

D. The state agency shall establish and communicate to all authorized stores and applicants the minimum stocking requirement.

E. Each federal fiscal year, a sample of authorized stores shall be selected for one or more unannounced onsite monitoring visits.

F. State agency personnel may conduct an unannounced monitoring visit to ensure that authorized stores or applicants meet all program requirements. Authorized stores and applicants shall have available onsite the minimum stocking requirement at all times as established by the state agency. The specific foods, contract formulas and administrative procedures associated with meeting this requirement are outlined in Policy 10, Minimum Stocking Requirement, effective May 1, 2007, of the Vendor Manual.

G. Authorized stores with more than one year of continuous participation in the program may request in writing to the state agency that an exception be granted for one or more items that are part of the minimum stocking requirement. The state agency shall provide a written decision to the store's exception request within 30 calendar days after receipt. The exception to the minimum stocking requirement for a required item shall expire upon the presentation to the store, on behalf of a participant, of a WIC food instrument for the purchase of that required food item. The authorized store shall provide the food item within 48 hours after presentation of the WIC food instrument.

H. The state agency may conduct other types of unannounced onsite monitoring visits to a retail store's location including, but not limited to, random, price verification, high volume, formula audits, and high risk.

I. During the unannounced onsite monitoring visit, the state agency representative may perform, but not be limited, to the following:

1. Observe and document the level of compliance with general program requirements;

2. Validate if the minimum stocking requirement has been met;

3. Collect and confirm prices submitted by retail stores;

4. Confirm prices are posted on or in close proximity to WIC-approved foods;

5. Review purchase or invoice records;

6. Conduct formula inventory analysis;

7. Educate the retailer about program changes;

8. Provide educational materials and supplies; and

9. Provide technical consultation.

J. During the unannounced onsite monitoring visits, store management may receive the following:

1. Answers to technical or procedural questions;

2. Updated program information;

3. Additional training materials and supplies;

4. Opportunity to correct documented deficiencies, if needed;

5. Opportunity to provide shelf prices of WIC-approved items, if applicable; and

6. Opportunity to confirm results documented by the state agency representative during the monitoring visit.

K. The results from these onsite visits are documented and kept on file at the Richmond, Virginia, state agency office.

L. Each federal fiscal year, a sample of authorized stores shall be selected for one or more announced onsite formula monitoring visits. The state agency shall ensure that authorized stores purchase and sell WIC-approved formulas from a legitimate source. This outcome is accomplished by state agency personnel reviewing formula purchasing records and invoices, comparing formula redemption data from WIC sales and completing a pre- and postphysical inventory of formula available at the store location during a specific analysis period. Stores whose purchase records do not support the quantity of WIC sales volume for a selective formula item based upon redeemed food instruments may be issued sanctions, fined or disqualified from the WIC Program. The results from a formula monitoring visit are documented and a written assessment is sent to the store once the state agency has completed its analysis.

M. Authorized stores that do not remain price competitive, fail to maintain the minimum stocking requirement or fail to adhere to the retailer agreement may be fined or have their authorization terminated, unless inadequate participant access exists. Depending upon the service delivery impact, the state agency may waive terminating a store that fails to comply with any of these requirements until an alternative store located in the same area can be authorized. The state agency will evaluate and document the reasons for making any authorization exception decisions.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-590

12VAC5-195-590. Reimbursement and payments.

A. The state agency shall use a prepayment edit process to screen all deposited food instruments. For each processed food instrument, the state agency shall either:

1. Pay as submitted;

2. Make a price adjustment, if applicable; or

3. Deny payment of the deposited food instrument.

B. The state agency's reimbursement responsibilities in making payments against deposited and undeposited food instruments include, but are not limited to:

1. Ensuring payments are made to authorized stores that have a signed retailer agreement with the Virginia WIC Program. Unauthorized stores will not be paid for any mistakenly accepted and deposited food instruments;

2. Ensuring the maximum reimbursement levels used by its banking contractor, based upon peer groups, are reasonable for the food and formula items prescribed for purchase by participants;

3. Reconsidering for payment WIC food instruments not paid or partially paid provided the food instruments are submitted to the state agency within 50 calendar days of the first date printed on the food instrument;

4. Making price adjustments to the reimbursement amount paid to retail stores in order to ensure individual store's reimbursement levels remain eligible for authorization, based upon competitive prices charged by similar stores;

5. Collecting bank account and routing numbers from applicants and authorized stores in order to process direct deposit payments using an Automated Clearinghouse (ACH);

6. Ensuring prompt ACH credits are made to the retailer's bank account when appropriate;

7. Collecting retailer's prices using an electronic, Internet-based application;

8. Identifying retailers whose prices are noncompetitive and take administrative actions including possible termination of the retailer's authorization;

9. Complying with all federal regulations and guidelines that require administrative approval by USDA prior to making payments, as applicable;

10. Providing written communications to all authorized stores containing the procedures used by the program to pay or deny payments for all deposited food instruments; and

11. Recouping overpayments due to banking or procedural errors, if applicable, from authorized stores.

C. Authorized stores must deposit food instruments within 14 calendar days of the last date printed on the food instrument.

D. Food instruments or image replacement documents (IRDs) rejected for payment due to "unreadable vendor stamp" or "no vendor stamp" error messages must be corrected and redeposited within 30 calendar days of the last date printed on the food instrument.

E. Food instruments or IRDs rejected for payment or undeposited FIs that require WIC Program review and exception payment consideration must be submitted by the authorized store to the state agency within 30 calendar days of the last date printed on the food instrument.

F. A maximum allowable reimbursement amount for each peer group and food item combination is established using pricing data (7 CFR 246.12(h)(3)(viii)). Each food item combination is identified by a unique food instrument type identifier. More than 4,000 unique food combinations exist with different reimbursement maximum amounts. Authorized stores that submit prices determined to be noncompetitive will not have their prices used when the state agency computes the maximum allowable reimbursement amount used for making price adjustments.

G. A maximum reimbursement amount will be established for cash value food instruments used by participants to purchase fruits and vegetables. The retailer must allow participants to spend up to the maximum payable amount printed on each of these types of food instruments. If the total dollar value being purchased exceeds the cash value, then the participant must be allowed to pay up to $ .99 per food instrument above the printed value.

H. The food instrument type/peer group pricing maximum amount may be adjusted monthly by the state agency, depending upon external factors including, but not limited to, wholesale price increases. The reimbursement maximum used for the various food instrument types peer group combinations are not distributed to authorized stores prior to being used by the banking contractor.

I. Food instruments or IRDs that are ineligible for payment and are rejected will be returned to the store's depository bank by the state agency's banking contractor. These returned food instruments will be stamped with a descriptive error message.

J. The state agency may make payment exceptions for food instruments that would normally be denied payment by its banking services contractor. The authorized store shall submit all such requests in writing within 30 calendar days from the last date printed on the food instrument. The state agency will send a payment disposition decision to the requestor within 30 calendar days, after receipt.

K. The state agency shall use a postpayment review process to prospectively evaluate the reimbursement amount paid against redeemed food instruments in order to identify excessive or improperly redeemed food instruments in accordance with federal regulations (7 CFR 246.12(k)(1)-(3)). From the postpayment review process, the state agency may determine that one or more payments already made to a retail store were noncompliant with the vendor management policies and procedures (Policy 9.0, Reimbursement of Paid and Returned WIC Food Instruments, effective May 26, 2008, of the Vendor Manual), including the signed retailer agreement. The state agency reserves the right to bill and recoup payments of these ineligible payments, which will be referred to as a vendor claim (7 CFR 246.12(h)(3)(ix)). The state agency shall not bill an authorized store if the vendor claim amount is less than $10.

L. A retail store that is not authorized to participate in the Virginia WIC Program that accepts a food instrument will not be reimbursed for any food instruments redeemed by a WIC participant.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-600

12VAC5-195-600. Sanctions and administrative actions.

A. Each federal fiscal year, the state agency shall conduct compliance investigations on a minimum of 5.0% of authorized stores (7 CFR 246.12(j)(4)), including completing investigations of all high risk stores, all probationary stores and selective nonhigh risk stores. The state agency will conduct at least two compliance buys at each store selected for an investigation.

B. The state agency will provide written notification to the authorized store of the investigation results, including the store's violation of any statutes or regulations governing its participation in the WIC Program unless fraudulent activities, such as overcharging the program, have been documented. Once an investigation has been closed, stores with documented violations will receive a final written report of the agency's findings. The final report will identify what administrative action will be taken by the state agency against the authorized store.

C. Violations are categorized as either state agency or federally mandated. For federally mandated violations, a pattern consisting of four documented incidents of the same violation must occur during a single investigation. State agency violations do not require a pattern of noncompliance before administrative action is taken (7 CFR 246.12(l)).

D. For federally mandated violations that include, but are not limited to, fraud, trafficking, sale of alcohol or alcoholic beverages or tobacco products, sale of detergent, kitchen items, and overcharging the WIC Program, the state agency will not provide the store with prior written notice that a violation or violations were documented before imposing administrative sanctions.

E. For selective state agency violations that include, but are not limited to, forgery or overcharge discrepancies, the state agency shall not provide prior written notice that the violation has occurred, in order to ensure the integrity of the investigative process.

F. The type of documented violation dictates the administrative action taken including, but not limited to:

1. Provision of a written warning;

2. Imposition of a technical penalty fine;

3. Assessment of a civil monetary penalty (CMP) in lieu of disqualification; or

4. Disqualification of an authorized store.

G. The state agency uses a multitier sanction schedule that consists of:

Class:

Description:

Description:

Administrative Actions:

A

Technical program violations

Represents procedural and food instrument handling errors.

$100 fine assessed per documented incident, including repeat incidents of the same violation, plus a written warning sent to the store.

B

Serious program violations

Represents noncompliance errors documented either from compliance investigations or noncompliance with provisions outlined in the retailer agreement.

Eight or more technical program violations within a consecutive 12-month period of time; or

One-year disqualification, if a pattern of noncompliance is required and met. Otherwise, a $100 technical fine per incident shall be assessed for all federally mandated violations that do not meet the pattern threshold requirement.

C

Critical program violations

Represents mandatory federal sanctions that require a pattern of noncompliance, i.e., overcharging.

Three documented incidents during a single investigation – Three-year disqualification.

A $100 technical fine per incident shall be assessed for all federally mandated violations that do not meet the pattern threshold requirement.

D

Major program violations

Represents mandatory federal sanctions, i.e., administrative finding of trafficking

Six-year disqualification – only one documented incident is required.

E

Warning

Represents a documented violation, but does not warrant points being assessed and/or a fine being charged.

Written warning sent to the retail store.

H. All documented overcharges or payments for ineligible food items identified during a compliance investigation will be considered a vendor claim and be subject to repayment.

I. Copies of any investigative evidence collected by the state agency from an open compliance investigation will be available to the authorized store, upon request, once the investigation has been closed and the store is notified in writing of the final compliance investigation results.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-610

12VAC5-195-610. Participant access.

A. Prior to taking disqualification actions against an authorized store, the state agency shall complete a participant access assessment (7 CFR 246.12(l)(ix)). This type of assessment is completed for denied authorizations if an informal settlement meeting or full administrative review is requested by a store applicant. Participant convenience is not a valid consideration for the state agencies in making any adequate access decisions.

B. Participant access will be a factor considered by the state agency in deciding if a store shall be assessed a civil monetary penalty in lieu of disqualification or when a store applicant is eligible as an authorization exception.

C. The state agency shall use the same criteria established for making authorization exceptions in deciding if adequate participant access exists.

D. The participant access analysis completed by the state agency contains confidential information. A copy of this internal work document shall not be given to retail stores or their representatives.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-620

12VAC5-195-620. Participant impact.

Participant impact may be an additional factor considered by the state agency in deciding if a store shall be assessed a civil monetary penalty in lieu of disqualification. For stores whose average number of unique participants is deemed high may be retained in lieu of disqualification. The state agency will take into consideration customer service impact and competitive pricing issues in making any administrative exception decisions.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-630

12VAC5-195-630. Retained in lieu of disqualification.

A. An authorized store with documented administrative findings that warrant WIC Program disqualification actions may be retained in lieu of disqualification if the state agency determines that inadequate participant access would exist. The state agency will evaluate the impact on participants and the preventive procedures the store intends to take in order to decide if the store will be allowed to pay a civil monetary penalty fine rather than being disqualified.

B. The state agency shall notify the authorized store in writing if it will be retained in lieu of disqualification and the civil monetary penalty fine that has been assessed (7 CFR 246.12(l)(x)).

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-640

12VAC5-195-640. Civil monetary penalty (CMP) fines.

A. A civil monetary penalty (CMP) fine may be assessed for documented state agency and federally mandated violations (7 CFR 246.12(l)(x)).

B. The state agency uses a federally mandated formula to calculate both state and federally mandated CMPs that are assessed. The maximum civil monetary penalty assessed shall comply with federal requirements as outlined in 7 CFR 246.12(l)(2). The state agency is unable to make any reductions in the maximum CMP amount due since this formula is defined in federal regulations.

C. The same formula is used to calculate the civil monetary penalty fine for stores retained in lieu of disqualification due to documented state agency sanctions. The state agency has the authority to reduce the fine amount being assessed against the store by no more than 50%. The state agency must document in its records the specific factors supporting this administrative decision.

D. A CMP shall be paid in full or based upon an agreed installment plan. Failure of the authorized store to pay any scheduled installments in a timely manner will lead to the store's disqualification for the original disqualification period.

E. Payments shall be made by certified check, cashier check or money order. Payments shall be made out to the Virginia WIC Program and mailed to the address identified on the penalty fine statement.

F. The state agency will process all past due obligations for any of the following including penalty fines, vendor claims, civil monetary penalty fines or overcharges assessed against authorized stores in accordance with the Office of the Comptroller's Policies and Procedures. Section Number 205000 (Accounts Receivable), dated June 2004. The state agency will also process all past due financial obligations in accordance with the Virginia Debt Collection Act (§2.2-4800 et seq. of the Code of Virginia).

G. The state agency shall notify the Food Stamp Program in writing within 15 calendar days after assessing a CMP against an authorized store being retained in lieu of disqualification.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-650

12VAC5-195-650. Disqualification administrative actions.

A. Voluntary withdrawal or nonrenewal in lieu of disqualification is not permitted for documented mandatory federal violations. The state agency may use voluntary withdrawal or nonrenewal for state agency sanctions only.

B. The state agency shall disqualify an authorized store for any of the following reasons:

1. Failure to comply with general requirements and conditions as established in the retailer agreement;

2. Failure to meet program requirements as documented from the compliance investigation process;

3. Reciprocal administrative action due to the store being disqualified from the Food Stamp Program (FSP);

4. Failure to pay a CMP or vendor claim within 30 calendar days after being assessed;

5. Provision of false, incomplete, inaccurate or misleading information that affects the store's selection status;

6. Repeated failure to maintain the minimum stocking requirement; or

7. Failure to take documented remedial corrective actions.

C. The state agency shall notify the food stamp office of any WIC Program disqualifications and termination actions taken against an authorized store location.

D. Authorized stores that are being disqualified due primarily to documented overcharges that have participated in a full administrative review and the adjudication officer's findings confirm that the disqualification actions being taken by the state agency are appropriate, then a fine will be assessed. A maximum fine of $999 shall be assessed for two or more documented overcharges during a single investigation. If only one overcharge incident was documented during a single investigation, then a maximum fine of $500 shall be assessed. If the disqualification action does not involve any documented overcharges, then no fine will be assessed.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-660

12VAC5-195-660. Informal settlement meetings.

A. An informal settlement meeting may be requested by an authorized store or applicant. Authorized stores may request an informal settlement meeting for any adverse action or program decision impacting a store. A store applicant may request an informal settlement meeting related to a denied authorization decision. During this meeting, the state agency will be represented by the state WIC director or designee.

B. The retail store or applicant has 15 calendar days from the date of receipt of the denial notice or adverse action to postmark a written request for an informal settlement meeting.

C. The request for the informal settlement meeting can be hand delivered, mailed by US mail, UPS or FedEx, sent by facsimile transmission or sent via email to the vendor manager.

D. Upon receipt of the retail store's or applicant's request for an informal settlement meeting, the state agency will confirm a date, time, place and method for the informal settlement meeting. The meeting may take place either through a face-to-face meeting or through video conference. Failure to attend the scheduled meeting on the agreed upon date and time will lead to the retail store forfeiting its rights to any further informal settlement meetings.

E. The retail store or applicant will have one opportunity to reschedule the informal settlement meeting time or date established with the state agency. All requests to reschedule the meeting must be submitted in writing at least 24 hours before the scheduled meeting date, unless an emergency occurs, as determined at the discretion of the state WIC director or designee.

F. If the retail store representative is more than 45 minutes late from the agreed upon meeting start time, then this will be considered a "no show" unless he can provide documentation that the state WIC director or designee determines justifies his tardiness or failure to appear. This outcome means that the retail store has forfeited its rights to the informal settlement meeting.

G. If an authorized store is being considered for possible program disqualification or other adverse actions, the state agency shall schedule an optional informal settlement meeting with store management prior to taking administrative action. The state WIC director or designee shall be in attendance. The purpose of the informal settlement meeting is to:

1. Identify areas of noncompliance;

2. Provide a forum for the store to submit information about the impact of the potential disqualification on WIC participants;

3. Review the inadequate participant access results and the civil monetary penalty fine for stores being retained in lieu of disqualification; and

4. Provide information to the store regarding its appeal rights.

H. Informal settlement meetings are primarily held in Richmond, Virginia. A store may request that the informal settlement meeting be held using videoconferencing technology. This option will be available to the store if traveling to Richmond will create an undue hardship on the owner or store representative. Undue hardship is defined as travel distance greater than a three-hour drive one way or any other situation determined at the discretion of the state WIC director or designee. The authorized store or applicant would be required to travel to a local agency that has videoconferencing equipment available.

I. After the informal settlement meeting is held, the state agency shall send within 15 days a written summary of the meeting's results to a designated store representative. If the resolution offered from the informal settlement meeting is unacceptable to the retail store, then the retail store or applicant may request a full administrative review in writing. This written request must be submitted to the vendor manager within 15 calendar days from the date of receipt of the informal settlement meeting summary. The vendor manager will identify if the store's request qualifies under federal regulations for a full administrative review. If the store's request is not eligible, then the store will receive a written response from the vendor manager of this decision.

J. An authorized store or applicant may elect not to participate in an informal settlement meeting and request a full administrative review. This option is available if it qualifies under federal regulations (7 CFR 246.18) for a full administrative review and is submitted within 15 days after receiving an official notice of the adverse actions from the state agency.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-670

12VAC5-195-670. Full administrative review.

A. Authorized retail stores and applicants shall be offered an opportunity to request a full administrative review for only the adverse action cited in subsection O of this section.

B. The retail store or applicant has 15 calendar days from the date of receipt of the denial notice, either by letter or an electronic format, or disqualification letter to request a full administrative review.

C. The request for the full administrative review can be mailed by US mail, sent by facsimile transmission or sent via email to the vendor manager. If the request is mailed, it must be postmarked within 15 calendar days from the date of receipt of letter or electronic notification from the state agency, whichever comes first.

D. The retail store or applicant must indicate whether or not he will be represented by an attorney when the full administrative review request is made. The retail store or applicant must also provide the state agency with copies of any written information to be used during the review and names of witnesses that will be called at least five days prior to the scheduled full administrative review. Failure to notify the state agency of these items may result in a rescheduled date and time for the full administrative review or the exclusion of documents and witnesses from the full administrative review.

E. Upon receipt of the retail store's or applicant's request for a full administrative review, the state agency will confirm a date, time, and place for the review within 30 days. For authorized stores, the review must be scheduled to take place within 60 calendar days after the written request is received by the state agency unless otherwise agreed to by the parties involved.

F. Failure to attend the scheduled review on the agreed upon date and time will lead to the retail store forfeiting its rights to any further administrative reviews.

G. The retail store or applicant will have one opportunity to reschedule the full administrative review's date or time. All requests to reschedule the review date or time must be submitted in writing at least 24 hours before the scheduled review date, unless an emergency occurs, as determined at the discretion of the state WIC director or designee. Rescheduled reviews shall take place within four weeks of the originally scheduled date unless the parties mutually agree on a later date.

H. If the retail store representative is more than 45 minutes late from the agreed upon review start time, then this will be considered a "no show" unless he can provide documentation that the WIC director or designee determines justifies his tardiness or failure to appear. This outcome means that the retail store has forfeited its rights to a full administrative review.

I. A full administrative review is conducted by an adjudication officer who is employed by the Virginia Department of Health. The adjudication officer shall ensure that administrative actions taken by the WIC Program are consistently and fairly applied and that those administrative actions comply with established policies, procedures and federal and state regulations. A representative from the state agency will present its case to the adjudication officer and retail store or applicant representative. Conversely, the storeowner or designated representative, which may include legal counsel, will present its case to the adjudication officer.

J. All full administrative reviews are held in Richmond, Virginia.

K. After a full administrative review is held, the state WIC director shall provide written notification of the adjudication officer's decision, including the basis for the decision, within 90 calendar days of the date of receipt of the full administrative appeal review request.

L. Authorized retail stores being disqualified may continue to deposit WIC food instruments until a decision has been rendered from the full administrative review. The adverse action effective date shall be postponed by the state agency pending the outcome of the review.

M. In accordance with 7 CFR 246.18(b)(2), if an authorized store does not request a full administrative review, then disqualification becomes effective 15 calendar days after the retailer receives the state agency's written disqualification letter.

N. An authorized retailer being retained in lieu of disqualification may elect to voluntarily withdraw from the WIC Program rather than pay a mandated civil monetary penalty fine. If the retailer voluntarily withdraws and does not pay a civil monetary penalty fine that previously had been imposed by the program, then a disqualification status will be documented in the state agency's records. The disqualification period may range from one to six years, depending on the type of sanctions and violations documented by the state agency.

O. The state agency shall provide a full administrative review to retail stores or applicants for the following adverse actions pursuant to 7 CFR 246.18(a)(1)(i) and (ii):

1. Denial of authorization based on the vendor selection criteria for competitive price or for minimum variety and quantity of authorized supplemental foods (7 CFR 246.12(g)(3)(i) and (ii)) or on a determination that the vendor is attempting to circumvent a sanction (7 CFR 246.12(g)(4));

2. Denial of authorization based upon the vendor selection criteria for business integrity or for a current Food Stamp Program disqualification or civil money penalty for hardship (7 CFR 246.12(g)(3)(iii) and (iv);

3. Denial of authorization based on a state agency established vendor selection criteria if the basis of the denial is a vendor sanction or a Food Stamp Program withdrawal of authorization or disqualification;

4. Denial of authorization based on the state agency's retailer limiting criteria (7 CFR 246.12(g)(2));

5. Denial of authorization because a vendor submitted its application outside the timeframes during which applications are accepted or processed as established by the state agency under 7 CFR 246.12(g)(7);

6. Termination of a retailer agreement because of a change in ownership or location or cessation of operations (7 CFR 246.12(h)(3)(xvii));

7. Termination of a retailer agreement for cause;

8. Disqualification based on documented WIC Program violations;

9. Disqualification based on a trafficking conviction (7 CFR 246.12(l)(1)(i));

10. Disqualification based on the imposition of a Food Stamp Program civil montary penalty for hardship (7 CFR 246.12(l)(2)(ii));

11. Disqualification or civil monetary penalty imposed in lieu of disqualification based on a mandatory sanction imposed by another WIC state agency (7 CFR 246.12(l)(2)(iii)); or

12. Imposition of a fine or a civil monetary penalty in lieu of disqualification.

P. The state agency shall not provide a full administrative review to retail stores that appeal the following actions pursuant to 7 CFR 246.18(a)(1)(iii):

1. The validity or appropriateness of the state agency's vendor limiting or selection criteria (7 CFR 246.12(g)(2) and (3));

2. The validity or appropriateness of the state agency's vendor peer group criteria and the criteria used to identify vendors that are above 50% vendors or comparable to above 50% vendors;

3. The validity or appropriateness of the state agency's participant access criteria and the state agency's participant access determinations;

4. The state agency's determination whether a vendor had an effective policy and program in effect to prevent trafficking and that the ownership of the vendor was not aware of, did not approve of, and was not involved in the conduct of the violation (7 CFR 246.12(l)(1)(i)(B));

5. Denial of authorization if the state agency's vendor authorization is subject to the procurement procedures applicable to the state agency;

6. The expiration of the retailer's agreement;

7. Disputes regarding food instrument payments and vendor claims other than the opportunity to justify or correct a vendor overcharge or other error as permitted by 7 CFR 246.12(k)(3); or

8. Disqualification of a vendor as a result of disqualification from the Food Stamp Program (7 CFR 246.12(l)(1)(vii)).

Q. A full administrative review request shall not be denied or dismissed unless:

1. The request to the state agency is not postmarked within 15 calendar days of the applicant or authorized store's receipt of the notice of disqualification or adverse action;

2. The request to the state agency was submitted by an individual who does not have the legal or delegated authority to represent the owner;

3. The retailer or authorized representative withdraws the request in writing;

4. The retailer or authorized representative fails without good cause to appear at the scheduled review date and time; or

5. The request for a full administrative review is not eligible for this consideration based on the specific exclusion criteria outlined in subsection P of this section.

Statutory Authority

§32.1-12 of the Code of Virginia; 7 CFR Part 246.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 24, Issue 19, eff. May 26, 2008.

12VAC5-195-680:2

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Virginia WIC Program Retailer Manual (Vendor Manual), Department of Health:

Policy 9.0, Reimbursement of Paid and Returned WIC Food Instruments, effective May 26, 2008.

Policy 10.0, Minimum Stocking Requirement, effective May 1, 2007.

Policy 14.0, Retailer Selection and Authorization, effective April 1, 2008.

Policy 14.1, Business Integrity, effective August 1, 2003.

Attachment to Policy 15.0, Sanction Classification System – Violation Schedule, effective May 26, 2008.

Virginia WIC Program Approved Food List, effective January 1, 2007, Virginia Department of Health.

Retailer Agreement, effective July 1, 2008, Virginia Department of Health.

Volume No. 1 – Policies & Procedures, Function No. 20000 – General Accounting, Section No. 20500 – Accounts Receivable, dated June 2004, Office of the Comptroller, Commonwealth of Virginia.