Federal Register #2026-22679

USDA Updates WIC Rules for Online Ordering, Transactions, and Food Delivery

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Administration issued a final rule updating WIC program regulations; this is a regulatory action, not a procurement opportunity. - Government buyer: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Nutrition Administration (FNA). - Procurement status: No products or services are solicited, and no OEMs, vendors, or suppliers are named. - Regulatory changes: - Removes barriers to online ordering and internet-based WIC transactions. - Allows State agencies to authorize internet and mobile vendors. - Permits participants to designate delivery locations, subject to State agency approval. - Updates provisions for EBT, transaction authentication, vendor oversight, and reporting. - Allows State agencies adopting this flexibility to permit returned electronic benefits to be used for up to seven days after their last date of use. - Notable consideration: The agency seeks stakeholder comments, particularly on effects on State agencies and their management information, EBT, and vendor systems.

Description

This final rule revises regulations for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). It removes barriers to online ordering and internet-based transactions, supports state agency innovation and modernized systems, and maintains program integrity. The rule also updates food delivery regulations and permits participants to designate delivery locations subject to state agency approval. It is effective December 7, 2026, and comments are requested by January 5, 2027.

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