Bill > HR5867

This bill establishes a three-year pilot grant program to support school food authorities in providing 100 percent plant-based food and milk options, with $10 million authorized for fiscal year 2026 through 2030. The program aims to help school districts, particularly those serving high proportions of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals, implement plant-based meal options by providing grants for professional development, technical assistance, student education, and procurement of plant-based foods. Priority will be given to applicants who demonstrate collaboration with community organizations, incorporate nutrition education, use organic products, and engage with local agricultural producers. School food authorities receiving grants must submit annual reports detailing the number of plant-based meals served, schools and students reached, and how grant funds were used. The bill also includes provisions to accommodate students' dietary needs by allowing substitutions for medical, religious, or special dietary requirements, including a separate pilot program to reimburse schools for providing non-dairy beverage alternatives. The legislation defines a "100 percent plant-based food option" as a meal that contains no animal products or byproducts and includes a meat alternate, with the goal of expanding nutritional choices and supporting diverse dietary needs in school meal programs.

Education

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5867/all-info