S.B. 235 - School Meals Summary

• Requires the Department of Education to authorize and facilitate complex areas or individual schools to form farm-to-school meal programs through partnerships with nonprofit organizations or private entities.

• Sets a goal of 30 percent of food served in schools to consist of locally sourced products by 2030, pursuant to existing Act 175 requirements.

• Authorizes the Department of Education to establish an optional plant-based meal program beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, including designation of specific days for plant-based meal offerings.

• Defines "plant-based meal" as meals containing minimally processed fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices while excluding all animal products.

• Requires the Department to submit interim progress reports to the legislature by 20 days before the 2027 regular session and a final report by 20 days before the 2028 regular session; the plant-based program sunset date is June 30, 2028.