Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations: Disqualification Penalties for Intentional Program Violations

The Food and Nutrition Service is amending Food Distribution Program regulations in response to an audit recommendation by the Department of Agriculture's Office of Inspector General. The changes are intended to improve program integrity and promote consistency with the Food Stamp Program. This rule defines intentional program violations, establishes penalties for them, and requires Indian Tribal Organizations and State agencies that administer the Food Distribution Program to take appropriate action on suspected cases of intentional program violations. It also addresses the establishment and collection of claims against households for overissuances under the Food Distribution Program, and makes technical changes to correct erroneous regulatory references.