21—50.9(159,175B) Vendor certification and eligibility.

1. 50.9(1)  Vendor certification shall not be in effect and vouchers shall not be accepted until the applicant receives a certified vendor identification sign and a notice of certification.
2. 50.9(2)  Vendor certification expires at the end of each year of issuance. Individuals must annually apply for and receive vendor certification in order to participate in Iowa FMNP.
3. 50.9(3)  The department does not limit the number of vendors who may become certified under Iowa FMNP.
4. 50.9(4)  The department issues a single certified vendor number for each separate and distinct agricultural operation.

5. 50.9(5)  To be eligible to apply for certification, a vendor must:

   1. a. Reside and grow eligible foods within Iowa or in a neighboring state in a county adjacent to Iowa’s border.
   2. b. Be at least 18 years of age or older.
   3. c. Participate in training on Iowa FMNP rules and procedures conducted by department staff in a manner and frequency specified by the department.
   4. d. Submit a vendor/department agreement signed by a representative with legal authority to obligate the vendor or agricultural operation. Agreements may not exceed three years.
   5. e. Indicate an intent to participate in one or more authorized farmers’ markets/farmstands.

[ARC 7883C, IAB 4/17/24, effective 5/22/24]