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Creates two USDA pilot grant programs for school meal programs: one awards 3-year grants to implement and serve 100% plant-based breakfasts and lunches, and the other reimburses the full cost of nondairy beverages used as milk substitutes for up to three years. The measure defines eligibility, allows funds for staff training, procurement outreach, student education and taste tests, prioritizes high-poverty districts and partnerships with underserved producers, requires annual grantee reporting and USDA summaries to Congress, and authorizes $10 million for the plant-based pilot and $2 million for the nondairy beverage pilot for FY2026.
The bill pilots expanded plant‑based meals and no‑cost nondairy beverages in targeted high‑need schools, improving access and building evidence while relying on modest, time‑limited federal funding that may increase local costs, administrative burdens, and leave many districts or students without sustained access after the pilot.
Students in participating high‑poverty schools gain access to 100% plant‑based breakfasts and lunches during the 3‑year pilot, expanding meal variety for low‑income students.
Students with lactose intolerance or who prefer nondairy options can receive nondairy milk substitutes at no cost, improving dietary inclusion and access to school meals.
Grants and an authorization provide direct financial support (including up to $2,000,000 for nondairy beverages) to participating school food authorities, reducing local budget pressure for districts taking part in the pilot.
The federal investment is limited and time‑bound (a $10 million pilot plus a $2 million nondairy authorization in FY2026), which (a) imposes taxpayer cost and may divert funds from other nutrition priorities and (b) is unlikely to sustain nondairy/plant‑based options nationwide after the 3‑year pilot.
Some students may not accept plant‑based meals, which could reduce school meal participation and lower food service revenue for districts that adopt them.
School food authorities face additional administrative burden to track and report program and dietary accommodation data, adding workload for already stretched staff.
Introduced January 15, 2026 by Adam Schiff · Last progress January 15, 2026