Erie convenience store settles dispute with USDA over eligibility of items purchased with food stamps
A protracted legal battle between the federal government and a convenience store in Erie’s Little Italy neighborhood has concluded. The dispute, which threatened to prevent the store from accepting food stamps, has finally been resolved.
The lawsuit, filed by Quick Stop, located at West 18th and Chestnut Streets, sought to overturn a decision by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that would have disqualified the store from accepting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for six months. This decision was based on a USDA investigation that accused Quick Stop of accepting food stamps for items not eligible under SNAP.
Ineligible Items
According to the USDA investigation, Quick Stop accepted food stamps for products such as:
- Garbage bags
- Dishwashing soap
- Plastic spoons
- Paper plates
Dispute Resolution
The agreement reached ends a period of uncertainty for Quick Stop, a vital store in an economically distressed neighborhood. Thanks to this agreement, the store will be able to continue to accept food stamps, ensuring that local residents maintain access to needed food supplies.
This resolution underscores the importance of convenience stores in providing access to essential resources in underserved areas. The ability to accept SNAP benefits is crucial to both store operations and the well-being of their customers.
On May 31, Quick Stop took legal action to block the ban from going into effect, suing the USDA. According to court records, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, which represents the USDA, did not respond to the lawsuit before a settlement was reached between the two parties.
Settlement in Process
On June 13, a notice of settlement was filed, although specific terms were not disclosed. The notice indicated that the parties had «reached an agreement in principle» and were working to finalize a written agreement. Once this agreement becomes effective, they will file a stipulation of dismissal.
Andrew Z. Tapp, the attorney representing Quick Stop, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Background of the dispute
The dispute began when the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service issued an «accusation letter» on Nov. 28, 2022. This letter alleged that Quick Stop had sold ineligible items under SNAP and, as a result, the USDA sought to disqualify the store from accepting SNAP for six months.
Quick Stop argued that the USDA’s findings were incorrect and that a six-month suspension of the SNAP program would significantly affect its revenues during that period. The store argued that there was no evidence that the owner or management was negligent in the supervision or operation of the store and that adequate SNAP training had been provided to its employees.
Key points of the lawsuit
- Rejection of USDA’s final administrative appeal on May 14.
- Charge letter issued on Nov. 28, 2022, alleging the sale of ineligible items under SNAP.
- Proposed six-month debarment from accepting SNAP.
- Quick Stop’s assertion that the findings were incorrect and lacked evidence.
- Emphasis on proper supervision and SNAP training provided to employees.
This case serves as a reminder of the complex legal battles that can arise between businesses and federal agencies, and the importance of understanding the legal processes involved. As this situation develops, it remains to be seen how the court will rule on Quick Stop’s claims and the validity of the USDA’s allegations.