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 1619, also known as the "Fluid 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 bill emphasizes the importance of providing options for students who may be lactose intolerant, have dairy allergies, or follow a plant-based diet. By allowing students or their parents/guardians to request fluid milk substitutes, schools can better meet the diverse dietary needs of their student population.

In addition to requiring schools to provide fluid milk substitutes upon request, the bill also includes provisions for ensuring that these substitutes meet certain nutritional standards. This ensures that students who opt for a non-dairy alternative are still receiving the necessary nutrients typically found in cow's milk. Overall, the Fluid Milk Substitutes in Schools Act aims to promote inclusivity and accommodate the dietary needs of all students in school lunch programs. By providing options for fluid milk substitutes, schools can better support the health and well-being of their students.