Lawmakers are revisiting the issue of whole milk in schools

Ag lawmakers have been fighting for years to keep whole milk in school cafeterias, and now, they are getting ready to hear all sides of the argument.

For more than a decade, Congress has prevented U.S. public schools from serving whole milk to students. However, parents, doctors, and the dairy community are now pushing back, and Congress says it will listen.

Tomorrow morning, Senate Ag Committee leadership will hold a hearing on the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which is a bill that has been around in different versions over the years, and would allow schools in the national school lunch program to serve reduced or low fat milk, including flavored varieties. Several groups will testify including USDA, as well as a number of school district leaders from around the country.

Related Stories
Industry leaders argue the decision could disrupt confidence in conservation practices and increase regulatory uncertainty for producers across the region.
Rising input costs may squeeze margins and shift planting decisions. Scott Metzger with the American Soybean Association discusses fertilizer market pressures and what is at stake for farmers as planting season ramps up.
Texas ranchers and lawmakers warn of renewed New World screwworm risks, highlighting prevention efforts, border concerns, and the role of sterile flies in protecting U.S. livestock.
USDA Undersecretary Dr. Mindy Brashears provides more insight on the updated “Product of USA” label campaign and the USDA’s goals for both consumers and producers.
Reduced driver supply may increase freight costs this season.
Global trade uncertainty could impact long-term export opportunities.