From Policy to Plate: Implications of 2025 U.S. Federal Policy Changes on School Meals

School meals are a cornerstone of the United States’ nutrition safety net for children from low-income families, providing nearly 30 million lunches daily. However, recent U.S. policy actions may limit access to school meals for children who need them most. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act changed eligibility requirements to limit participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid. School-age children enrolled in SNAP and Medicaid are automatically enrolled in school meal programs. Limiting participation in SNAP and Medicaid has the potential to significantly impact children’s ability to receive nutritious school meals at low or no cost, will make it harder for schools to participate in community eligibility provision, and will increase the administrative burden on school staff and parents.