Bipartisan Bill Would Reintroduce Whole And 2 Percent Milk to School Meals
The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act gained strong bipartisan support as the Senate Agriculture Committee approved the bill by voice vote.
The legislation seeks to give schools the option to serve whole and 2% milk again, reversing the current rules that allow only low-fat and fat-free milk.
Since 2012, federal meal guidelines have restricted school milk options. But health experts and lawmakers argue that whole and 2% milk are nutritious and more filling for students. These milk types contain 13 essential nutrients—including protein, calcium, and vitamin D—important for growth and development.
Supporters of the bill believe it will help increase milk consumption among schoolchildren by offering options that are more familiar and satisfying. The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) welcomed the committee’s move.
“The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act is about making informed, science-backed decisions that prioritize the health and future of our children,” said NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud.
The Senate version is backed by Senators Roger Marshall, Peter Welch, Dave McCormick, and John Fetterman, with leadership support from John Boozman and Amy Klobuchar.
Meanwhile, the House version—led by GT Thompson and Kim Schrier—has passed a key committee and is awaiting a full vote.
A similar bill passed in the House last year but did not reach the Senate before the session ended. With growing momentum this year, advocates are hopeful for final passage.
If enacted, the bill would bring more nutritious and appealing milk choices back to schools, aligning with what most families already serve at home. NMPF is encouraging dairy advocates to help support the bill through its website.
The legislation could reshape school nutrition programs and improve student health outcomes nationwide.