President Signs Buy American Executive Order 2021-01-27On Monday, January 25, President Biden signed an Executive Order to update and strengthen Buy American requirements across the federal government agencies. A fact sheet specifies that the order directs agencies to close loopholes in existing Buy American rules, appoints a Director of Made-in-America to oversee implementation of the Executive Order and increases oversight of waivers to domestic preference laws, among other provisions. Some organizations are urging USDA to strengthen Buy America provisions for the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs as part of implementing this Executive Order. Current Buy American regulations ensure US-grown foods are served to students first, while providing reasonable exemptions to ensure schools can adequately source a wide variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the school year. Any updates to these rules must ensure school meal programs, operating with tight budgets and complex menu planning requirements, continue to have access to reliable, affordable sources of produce throughout the seasons. SNA will monitor implementation of the Executive Order and keep members apprised.