By Blake Jackson
The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for approving H.R. 649, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, through a voice vote on Monday. Sponsored by Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA) and Rep. Kim Schrier (D-WA), the legislation now advances to President Donald Trump for consideration and signature. If enacted, the bill would allow schools to offer whole and 2% milk both flavored and unflavored in addition to existing low-fat and fat-free options.
Whole and two percent milk were removed from school cafeterias under the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010. Since then, schools have largely served one percent and skim milk. Supporters of H.R. 649 argue that these lower-fat options are less appealing to students and do not reflect current, science-based nutrition research.
“I have worked for a decade to restore whole milk to our school cafeterias, which have been limiting healthy choices for students, but that changes today,” said Rep. Thompson, Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture.
“Whole milk is an essential building block for a well-rounded and balanced diet, and students should have the option to choose the milk they love. I am proud that my bill, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, passed the House today and now heads to President Trump’s desk for his signature.”
Health experts note that whole milk provides 21 essential minerals and 13 vitamins important for childhood development. Research has linked whole milk consumption to benefits including improved bone health, stronger immune systems, reduced cardiovascular risk, and better sleep quality.
While the 2010 law aimed to address childhood obesity, processed foods remained widely available in schools, and student body mass index levels continued to rise. Studies have shown that children who drink whole milk are 40% less likely to be overweight, challenging assumptions about milk fat and weight gain.
“Pennsylvania Farm Bureau members have waited over a decade to see progress made on getting whole and two percent milk back in schools. Today, the House had a historic vote for the dairy industry by passing the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025,” said PFB President Chris Hoffman.
“We are thrilled to once again offer students one of the most nutritious and wholesome beverages to support a healthy childhood development. We look forward to restoring nutritious beverage options in schools and growing the current pool of fluid milk consumers. We urge President Trump to swiftly sign this bill into law.”
Photo Credit: pa-farm-bureau
Categories: Pennsylvania, Government & Policy