The Senate unanimously passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, clearing a major hurdle toward restoring whole and 2% milk options in school meal programs.
The bill now heads to the House, where similar legislation passed overwhelmingly in 2023, before it can be sent to the president’s desk.
The measure would allow schools to serve whole and reduced-fat milk alongside the current offerings of low-fat, fat-free and flavored varieties.
Supporters say the change reflects updated nutrition research showing milk of all fat levels has neutral or positive health effects.
Whole and 2% milk remain the most commonly consumed varieties at home. “Restoring schools’ option to offer whole and reduced-fat milk will mean more schoolkids get the essential nutrients they need,” said Gregg Doud, president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation.
The bipartisan bill is sponsored by Sens. Roger Marshall, Peter Welch, Dave McCormick and John Fetterman.
