A coalition of state attorneys general is challenging the Trump administration’s recent rollback of nutritional standards for school lunches, arguing that the changes jeopardize the health of millions of children. The lawsuit, spearheaded by New York Attorney General Angela Roberts, includes AGs from California, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Minnesota, New Mexico, and Vermont. Roberts emphasized, “In New York alone, over a million children—particularly those in low-income areas—rely on school meals that are nutritious and essential for their learning.”
The lawsuit targets the administration’s efforts to dilute the health-focused guidelines established during the Obama era. These standards aimed to provide children with more nutritious options, like whole grains and reduced sodium levels. However, recent changes have allowed schools to serve more white bread and pasta, which lack essential nutrients, and have loosened sodium restrictions. “The Trump Administration has willfully disregarded science and expert consensus, undermining vital health protections for our children,” Roberts stated. “We will do everything in our power to counter these detrimental rollbacks and safeguard our children’s health.”
Public Health Advocates Respond
Public health advocates have joined the chorus of disapproval. Laura Jenkins, a policy director at the Healthy Eating Coalition, criticized the administration’s “flexibilities,” stating they are both unnecessary and harmful. Her organization is also pursuing a federal lawsuit in Maryland, contending that the USDA’s weakened standards violate the School Lunch Act and threaten the well-being of millions of children. “This is a crucial policy issue that can significantly impact children’s health,” Jenkins remarked. “The Trump administration is missing the mark.”
Support for the Changes
However, the School Nutrition Association (SNA), representing over 58,000 members, supports the administration’s changes, arguing that students are not consuming the healthier options. SNA President Mark Thompson noted, “We appreciate the USDA’s efforts to maintain strong standards while addressing the challenges schools face in ensuring students eat healthy meals.”
Concerns for Vulnerable Populations
Contrarily, advocates for vulnerable populations argue against these rollbacks. Chef Lisa Monroe, Executive Director of the Community Food Initiative, stated, “Our community’s 20,000 food-insecure residents depend on nutritious and appealing school meals for their children. Weakening nutritional standards is simply unacceptable and will only worsen educational outcomes and food insecurity.” She expressed gratitude for AG Roberts’ leadership in fighting for children’s health.
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Conclusion
In summary, a group of state attorneys general is suing the Trump administration for undermining school lunch nutrition standards that protect children’s health. The lawsuit highlights the importance of nutritious meals for millions of kids and challenges the administration’s disregard for scientific recommendations. While some groups support the changes, advocates for children are rallying to defend their right to healthy food options.