Last week, Senator Heinrich (D-NM) introduced the Healthy Meals Help Kids Learn Act. The bill would increase federal reimbursement rates for school breakfasts and lunches to help programs address rising operational costs. SNA has endorsed the bill.
Key details:
- The bill would increase federal reimbursement rates by 45 cents per lunch and 28 cents per breakfast, with annual adjustments.
- The bill responds to the growing financial pressures on school meal programs. SNA’s SY 2025-26 Trends Report shows that 99% of respondents reported needing more funding for their programs, while rising food (98%), labor (95%), and equipment (95%) costs remain major challenges.
- “To meet updated federal nutrition standards, schools need additional funds to purchase more fresh, whole foods and invest in kitchen upgrades and culinary training. The Healthy Meals Help Kids Learn Act will ensure school meal programs have the necessary resources to fuel students for success in and out of the classroom.” – SNA President Ashley Powell, PhD, RD, FAND, SNS.
For more details, view the official press release and the full text of the bill. Urge your legislators to support the Healthy Meals Help Kids Learn Act! Take action on our campaign now!
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