H.R. 5731: School Food Modernization Act

The School Food Modernization Act aims to enhance the quality and efficiency of school meal programs by providing financial assistance and support for infrastructure improvements and training for food service personnel. Here are the main features of the bill:

Loan Guarantees and Grants

The bill amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to introduce a program for loan guarantees and grants. These funds can be used by eligible entities, such as:

• Local educational agencies
• School food authorities
• Tribal organizations
• Consortiums that include any of the above

The funds will cover expenses related to:

• Construction, remodeling, or expansion of food service facilities
• Purchasing durable food preparation and storage equipment (costing more than $500)

Funding and Oversight

The Secretary of Agriculture is responsible for issuing these loan guarantees and will prioritize applications from entities that demonstrate a significant need for improvements. The program is authorized to utilize $300 million in existing loan guarantee authority and establish fees to cover the cost of these guarantees. The Secretary will also provide oversight for these projects.

Equipment Grants

The bill also provides grants to state agencies that can distribute competitive subgrants to local educational agencies. These funds are designated for purchasing equipment that supports healthy meal preparation and food safety. An amount of $35 million is authorized for this initiative annually from fiscal years 2026 through 2031, with similar preferences given to those demonstrating need.

Training and Technical Assistance

An essential aspect of the bill is funding a training program for school food service personnel. This program will support third-party institutions in developing training that meets federal nutrition standards and improves the efficiency of school meal programs. Eligible institutions might include:

• Nonprofit organizations with experience in nutrition training
• Institutions of higher education
• Career and technical education schools

Grants for this training will cover up to 80% of the costs, encouraging institutions to provide matching funds and ensuring high-quality training programs.

Reports and Studies

The bill mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to submit annual progress reports to Congress regarding the implementation of the new provisions. Additionally, it requires a study on how state agencies use administrative funds, identifying best practices and challenges in utilizing these resources effectively.

Funding Rescission

Finally, the bill proposes a rescindment of $45 million from the unobligated balance available for administrative expenses of the Department of Education to offset the costs of the new programs.

Relevant Companies

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