SNAP/WIC

The USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) is the federal agency with primary responsibility for administering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).  FNS has exclusive authority to authorize and disqualify SNAP retailers. 

 

OFW Law attorneys have broad expertise in all matters of importance to SNAP and WIC retailers across the United States.  We routinely guide retailers through the SNAP authorization process and provide critical representation when SNAP retailers are threatened with the loss of their SNAP license.   The need to retain experienced counsel when facing permanent disqualification from SNAP for trafficking in food stamps is critical.

 

OFW Law frequently provides statutory and regulatory advice to SNAP and WIC retailers of all sizes and has submitted comments in response to proposed SNAP regulations.  Stores must have a written training program and a written compliance protocol in order to be eligible to seek a Civil Money Penalty (“CMP”) in lieu of permanent disqualification for trafficking. OFW Law also has experience preparing SNAP and WIC training guides and compliance protocols for retail food stores.

 

OFW Principal Stewart Fried represents supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, other vendors, and grocer associations on virtually every SNAP and WIC-related issue.  Since 2012, Stewart has handled hundreds of administrative and judicial review proceedings, including SNAP trafficking cases, matters in which FNS denied or withdrew a retailer’s SNAP authorization because the agency believes the store is a restaurant, based on business integrity issues.  Stewart has also represented SNAP vendors in charge letter proceedings based on credit account violations and due to the sale of SNAP-ineligible items.

 

Stewart Fried has established an unparalleled reputation for effectively and efficiently handling administrative and judicial review proceedings across the country protecting retailers’ rights. Additionally, OFW Law’s location in Washington, D.C. provides a unique benefit to our clients as it permits easy access to USDA and FNS officials and Congressional offices.

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