Senator Schumer Announces Senate Passage of Whole Milk For Healthy Kids Act – Says Will Increase Student Consumption of Milk

In an effort to support dairy farmers throughout the nation, including those in Upstate New York, US Senator Chuck Schumer announced last week that the bipartisan, bicameral Whole Milk For Healthy Kids act, has been passed by the Senate. Senator Schumer says this will allow more milk options for cafeteries and will increase milk consumption by students.

“Milk is an essential part of our students’ school lunches and the lifeblood of our Upstate NY agricultural economy. I was proud to support the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act to ensure more milk options are available in school cafeterias across America,” said Senator Schumer. “This is a win-win for local New York dairy farmers who can sell their products and kids who will have more healthy and delicious drink options at lunchtime. I have long fought to boost New York’s dairy industry and will continue fighting to ensure our farmers’ products are widely available.”

According to the Senator, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025 highlights the health benefits milk provides to students, including better bone health, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease or Type 2 diabetes. According to the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs), milk is a source of two under-consumed nutrients, calcium, and vitamin D. In addition, recent scientific and medical research indicates higher-fat milk consumption by children is associated with lower childhood obesity and other positive health outcomes.

School Districts who participate in the US Department of Agriculture’s school meals program have not been permitted to serve whole milk since 2012. Schumer says more varieties and options will increase milk consumption by students. The act will allow districts to serve whole milk for the first time in 13 years.

The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025 was sent to the US House of Representatives for review and vote on November 20th.