S. 222 · 119th Congress · Senate
Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025
Introduced 2025-01-23 · Sponsored by Sen. Marshall, Roger [R-KS] (R-KS) · Last updated 2026-03-31
Last action (2026-01-14): Became Public Law No: 119-69.
Summary
Schools in the National School Lunch Program can now offer whole milk and reduced-fat milk alongside the low-fat and fat-free options that were previously the only choices allowed. The milk can be flavored or unflavored and may be organic or lactose-free. Recent nutrition research has moved away from the blanket advice to avoid full-fat dairy, which helped drive this change.
The Good
Expands milk options in school lunch programs
Permits schools in the National School Lunch Program to offer whole and reduced-fat milk alongside the current low-fat and fat-free options. This gives schools more flexibility to serve milk that students are more likely to drink.
Updated nutrition science supports full-fat dairy
Recent dietary research has moved away from the blanket recommendation to avoid saturated fat in dairy. Studies published in major nutrition journals suggest whole milk may not increase cardiovascular risk and provides important fat-soluble vitamins that children need for development.
The Bad
Whole milk has more calories and saturated fat
Childhood obesity remains a significant public health concern. Whole milk contains roughly twice the calories from fat as skim milk. Opponents argue that offering it in schools undercuts efforts to provide healthier options in an environment where many children get a substantial portion of their daily calories.
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