To amend the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to require schools to provide fluid milk substitutes upon request of a student or the parent or guardian of such student, and for other purposes.

This bill requires schools to substitute a nondairy beverage for fluid milk in the National School Lunch Program upon the request of a student or their parent or guardian. Under current law, schools participating in the program may provide a substitute at the request of a medical authority or the student's parent or guardian.

The bill also removes current requirements that (1) the substitute request be based on an identified medical or other special dietary need that restricts the student's diet, and (2) the school food authority pay for any additional expenses resulting from providing the substitute that exceed the covered reimbursement amounts.

Bill 118 hr 1539, also known as the "Milk Substitutes in Schools Act," aims to amend the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to ensure that schools provide fluid milk substitutes upon request from a student or their parent or guardian. This bill is designed to accommodate students who may have dietary restrictions or preferences that prevent them from consuming traditional cow's milk.

The main purpose of this legislation is to promote inclusivity and accommodate the diverse dietary needs of students in schools across the country. By requiring schools to offer fluid milk substitutes upon request, students who are lactose intolerant, allergic to dairy, or follow a plant-based diet will have access to suitable alternatives.

In addition to providing fluid milk substitutes, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes related to the National School Lunch Program. This may include guidelines for the types of milk substitutes that schools can offer, as well as procedures for handling requests from students or their parents or guardians. Overall, the Milk Substitutes in Schools Act seeks to ensure that all students have access to nutritious and suitable beverage options during meal times at school. By promoting inclusivity and accommodating dietary preferences, this legislation aims to support the health and well-being of students across the United States.