CFIC keeps members informed of regulatory issues so that they can avoid costly mistakes. CFIC works with the following agencies in both states to advocate for YOU:
- The Departments of Agriculture on issues related to food safety;
- The Departments of Revenue on tax-related issues;
- The SC Department of Social Services and the NC Department of Health and Human Services on issues related to WIC and SNAP;
- The North and South Carolina Education Lotteries;
- The North Carolina ABC Commission and South Carolina Department of Revenue on alcohol-permitting issues; and
- The Emergency Management Divisions to assist members during times of disaster.
SNAP
CFIC works with US Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (USDA FNS) to help grocery retailers comply with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, USDA FNS allowed additional states to participate in the Online SNAP pilot program. As a result, authorized SNAP retailers in both North Carolina and South Carolina can start the process of participating in Online SNAP by reviewing the USDA FNS requirements.
WIC Vendors
The Women, Infants, and Children Program (WIC) generates many questions from CFIC grocers because of minimum inventory requirements and the strict list of allowable products.
To answer questions, both state agencies partner with CFIC to host regular meetings and calls for retailers. Many questions can also be answered on the NC WIC Vendor website or the SC WIC Vendor website. If you need help with a WIC issue, contact Lindsey Kueffner at (919) 832-0811.
Food Safety
CFIC staff stays on top of food safety regulations in both states. Both states require a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) in each store. To become a CFPM, visit CFIC’s education portal here and click “Catalog” for the Guide to Food Safety Online, designed to teach the base knowledge required for a certified food safety manager. This course helps prepare managers for the national certification exam. You can pair the online course with the food safety manager examination for a complete program to certify food safety managers.