12VAC5-195-370: Authorization exception decisions

The state agency may make authorization exceptions to ensure that adequate access exists based on at least one of the following criteria:

1. Provide reasonable access;

2. Provide safe access due to a physical barrier or impediment including a multilane highway, river, bridge, or physical terrain (i.e., mountains);

3. Provide best pricing or a highly competitive alternative retailer location to eligible participants to purchase WIC-approved foods, when compared to other available retailers located within a given city or county;

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

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

6. Improve WIC customer access because the retailer 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;

7. The retailer's draw area is broader than the retailer's immediate trade area. The retailer's draw area includes cities and counties that cross geographical boundaries; or

8. Expand access to WIC eligible foods that are purchased by a specific ethnic population.