12VAC5-195-480: Participant confidentiality

A. Participant information shall remain confidential to ensure compliance with federal regulations and to protect the right to privacy of WIC participants (7 CFR 246.26).

B. Confidentiality requirements apply to information provided by a participant and that is based on direct observation by retailer personnel. Confidentiality requirements include, but are not limited to:

1. The prohibition of retailers from collecting personal information from WIC participants;

2. Making personal contacts with WIC participants after the WIC transaction has occurred; or

3. Sharing information on participant identification with third parties. Third parties do not include WIC Program state, local and federal agency representatives who have a legitimate business interest in the services provided to participants.