42 U.S.C. § 1769i : US Code - Section 1769I: Program evaluation

Search 42 U.S.C. § 1769i : US Code - Section 1769I: Program evaluation

(a) Performance assessments
(1) In general
Subject to the availability of funds made available under
paragraph (3), the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of
the Food and Nutrition Service, may conduct annual national
performance assessments of the meal programs under this chapter
and the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (42 U.S.C. 1771 et seq.).
(2) Components
In conducting an assessment, the Secretary may assess -
(A) the cost of producing meals and meal supplements under
the programs described in paragraph (1); and
(B) the nutrient profile of meals, and status of menu
planning practices, under the programs.
(3) Authorization of appropriations
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
subsection $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2004 and each subsequent
fiscal year.
(b) Certification improvements
(1) In general
Subject to the availability of funds made available under
paragraph (5), the Secretary, acting through the Administrator of
the Food and Nutrition Service, shall conduct a study of the
feasibility of improving the certification process used for the
school lunch program established under this chapter.
(2) Pilot projects
In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary may conduct
pilot projects to improve the certification process used for the
school lunch program.
(3) Components
In carrying out this subsection, the Secretary shall examine
the use of -
(A) other income reporting systems;
(B) an integrated benefit eligibility determination process
managed by a single agency;
(C) income or program participation data gathered by State or
local agencies; and
(D) other options determined by the Secretary.
(4) Waivers
(A) In general
Subject to subparagraph (B), the Secretary may waive such
provisions of this chapter and the Child Nutrition Act of 1966
(42 U.S.C. 1771 et seq.) as are necessary to carry out this
subsection.
(B) Provisions
The protections of section 1758(b)(6) of this title shall
apply to any study or pilot project carried out under this
subsection.
(5) Authorization of appropriations
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this
subsection such sums as are necessary.