Interim Civil Rights and Non-Discrimination Statement Guidance

Issue Number: 03-2027

Date: August 10, 2026

Regulatory Authority: CRD 01-2026

To: Superintendents, Child Nutrition Directors, and Managers

From: Food and Nutrition Division

For questions: Contact Nancy Dill at 501‑324‑9502 or nancy.dill@ade.arkansas.gov

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Division adheres to the civil rights requirements of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

USDA Memorandum CRD 01-2026, Modifying FNS Instruction 113-1: Civil Rights Compliance and Enforcement – Nutrition Programs and Activities directs state agencies and program operators to discontinue citing or relying upon FNS Instruction 113-1 while USDA develops revised guidance. The memorandum further clarifies that federal civil rights and non-discrimination laws, regulations, and compliance requirements remain in effect.

Until updated guidance is issued by USDA, school food authorities (SFAs) and all other program operators must continue to comply with all applicable federal civil rights requirements. In keeping with current USDA requirements, all materials distributed to households, including printed materials, electronic communications, online meal applications, and websites must include the applicable USDA non-discrimination statement.

In summary, until further guidance is received, continue to use the current non-discrimination statement on all applicable program materials and communications.

If you have questions regarding non-discrimination and civil rights, please contact your Area Specialist at (501) 324-9502.