Common use of Light Refreshments and/or Meals Clause in Contracts

Light Refreshments and/or Meals. APPLICABLE TO ALL AGREEMENTS EXCEPT STATE CONTINUING ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS (AS DESCRIBED BELOW): (1) An estimated budget and description for the light refreshments, meals, and/or beverages to be served at the event(s); (2) A description of the purpose, agenda, location, length and timing for the event; and, (3) An estimated number of participants in the event and a description of their roles. Costs for light refreshments and meals for recipient staff meetings and similar day-to-day activities are not allowable under EPA assistance agreements. Recipients may address questions about whether costs for light refreshments, and meals for events may be allowable to the recipient’s EPA Project Officer; however, the Agency Award Official or Grant Management Officer will make final determinations on allowability. Agency policy prohibits the use of EPA funds for receptions, banquets and similar activities that take place after normal business hours unless the recipient has provided a justification that has been expressly approved by EPA's Award Official or Grants Management Officer. EPA funding for meals, light refreshments, and space rental may not be used for any portion of an event where alcohol is served, purchased, or otherwise available as part of the event or meeting, even if EPA funds are not used to purchase the alcohol. Note: U.S. General Services Administration regulations define light refreshments for morning, afternoon or evening breaks to include, but not be limited to, coffee, tea, milk, juice, soft drinks, donuts, bagels, fruit, pretzels, cookies, chips, or muffins. (41 CFR 301-74.7) If the state maintains systems capable of complying with federal grant regulations at 2 CFR 200.432 and 200.438, EPA has waived the prior approval requirements for the use of EPA funds for light refreshments and/or meals served at meetings, conferences, and training, as described above. The state may follow its own procedures without requesting prior approval from EPA. However, notwithstanding state policies, EPA funds may not be used for (1) evening receptions, or (2) other evening events (with the exception of working meetings). Examples of working meetings include those evening events in which small groups discuss technical subjects on the basis of a structured agenda or there are presentations being conducted by experts. EPA funds for meals, light refreshments, and space rental may not be used for any portion of an event (including evening working meetings) where alcohol is served, purchased, or otherwise available as part of the event or meeting, even if EPA funds are not used to purchase the alcohol. By accepting this award, the state is certifying that it has systems in place (including internal controls) to comply with the requirements described above.