U.S. Senate passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act opens a path to congressional passage this month, with NMPF leading an advocacy campaign to ensure prompt House of Representatives approval of legislation that will benefit children’s nutrition.
The Senate unanimously passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act on Nov. 20, leaving only House passage and a presidential signature before improved access to dairy nutrition in schools becomes law. The bill provides schools with the option of serving whole and 2% milk in addition to the 1%, fat-free, and flavored options currently offered.
Whole and 2% milk are the most consumed varieties at home, offering the same 13 essential nutrients including protein, calcium and vitamin D with a taste kids often prefer.
“Restoring schools’ option to offer whole and reduced-fat milk will mean more schoolkids will get the essential nutrients they need,” NMPF President and CEO Gregg Doud said in a statement after Senate passage. “This commonsense legislation will help American children get back on solid nutritional footing. We’re grateful that both sides of the aisle can come together and agree on the importance of making informed, science-backed decisions that prioritize the health and future of our children.”
Following the Senate’s action, NMPF last week launched a final advocacy campaign to get whole milk over the finish line and into schools. Dairy farmers and advocates wishing to urge their House members to bring the legislation to a floor vote can visit NMPF’s advocacy page and enter their message. NMPF is staying active on social media and in news outlets, pushing to get the bill on the House calendar.
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