Federal Legislation & Regulations

The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) was established by the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, while other federal child nutrition programs, including the School Breakfast Program (SBP), were created by the Child Nutrition Act of 1966.

Every five years, Congress reviews and amends these programs through Child Nutrition Reauthorization. The most recent reauthorization law, The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, P.L. 111-296, was signed into law on December 13, 2010. Although the 114th Congress considered Child Nutrition Reauthorization legislation, Congress adjourned in 2016 without passing a final bill.

SNA’s Position Paper outlines SNA’s advocacy goals in the absence of a Child Nutrition Reauthorization bill. SNA members can participate in SNA’s advocacy effort by attending SNA’s Legislative Action Conference, utilizing SNA’s Policy Resources, and supporting SNA’s Political Action Committee.

Additional Resources