[Cacfp] Important Child Nutrition Update

[Taylor, April]

On Wednesday, April 2, the Maine Department of Education (DOE) became aware of a letter from Secretary Brooke Rollins of the U.S. Department of Agriculture<https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/maine-letter.pdf> (USDA), indicating that non-specific federal funds that the Maine DOE receives "for certain administrative and technological functions in schools" would be frozen. Since then, the Maine DOE has been assessing potential impacts, including those to the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).

The Maine DOE can confirm that, at this time, funding to cover reimbursements for CACFP meals remains accessible. Not presently accessible, however, are CACFP administrative funds and the Cash in Lieu of Commodities line. Sponsors should please share this information with their providers and review management plans, in an effort to cover operations during this period of unexpected interruption.

Please also take note that in light of these developments, the separation of CACFP funds for payment had to occur manually on April 9, leading to a delay in processing. The Maine DOE is actively working to distribute these funds as quickly as possible.

On Monday, April 7, Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey filed a complaint in federal court pertaining to the freezing of these USDA funds<https://apnews.com/article/trump-maine-usda-transgender-sports-abfc3c0c63995764bed6fcee167a2509>. This lawsuit seeks a temporary restraining order (TRO), which would prevent the USDA from withholding funds until a court is able to hear the case. The Maine DOE is awaiting an update from the Attorney General's office regarding when that TRO may take effect.

The Maine DOE is still planning to host its mandatory annual training for CACFP providers on Tuesday, April 15, in an effort to continue these essential services. The Maine DOE recognizes, however, that travel to Augusta for this training may be difficult at this time, as funds are not presently available to reimburse travel expenses. Those who are unable to attend in-person due to this situation may request a refund and attend a virtual make-up session on Wednesday, May 21 (Zoom link to come).

The Maine DOE remains committed to sharing updates and guidance, as frequently and regularly as this dynamic situation allows. Those with specific questions may contact Jane McLucas, Maine DOE Director of Child Nutrition, at jane.mclucas at maine.gov.<mailto:jane.mclucas at maine.gov>

Thank you for your leadership.


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