Federal lawmakers are calling on their colleagues to provide funding to address staffing issues in school nutrition. | Photo: Shutterstock
This week, federal lawmakers are asking their colleagues for funding to address staffing issues in school nutrition. At the state level, lawmakers in Maryland and Delaware will also take action this week on bills related to free meals for all.
Introducing the latest school nutrition methods.
Federal lawmakers want funding to improve staffing of school nutrition staff
U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern (D-MA) calls for the Agriculture Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee to convene.To address the talent shortage currently impacting the school nutrition industry.
The School Nutrition Association first reported that McGovern is asking members of Congress to sign a letter he wrote to the agriculture subcommittee.Addressing current challenges in the school food industry.
His letter asks for additional funding to support two pilot programs aimed at providing training and workforce development to bring chefs and additional workers to schools. .
Labor continues to be a major challenge for school nutrition professionals across the country. According to a recent report from SNA: School nutrition experts cite staff shortages as top concern People who participated in the survey.
Maryland law considers costs associated with free school meals
A Maryland bill examining the costs associated with providing universal free school lunches has been signed into law by Gov. Wes Moore.
SB0579 The state Department of Education is asking the General Assembly to submit a report by the end of the year with a cost estimate for providing free breakfast and lunch to all public school students in the state.
The bill was originally supposed to provide free school breakfast and lunch to all students, but was amended as it passed through the House and Senate.
Delaware considers covering reduced-price meals in schools
Delaware has introduced a replacement bill that would cover the cost of meals at school for students eligible for reduced-price meals.
This bill replaces HB 125, which provides free meals at school to all students, regardless of whether they qualify for reduced-price meals. It is currently being considered by the House Appropriations Committee.
See the map below to see which states currently offer universal free meals.
