The comprehensive Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act includes a bylaw that promotes a relationship between school meal programs and local farmers. Under this rule, schools will buy produce sourced locally and will be encouraged to give preference to these local suppliers when planning meals, according to NPR.
Furthermore, nutritional standards will be raised by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which will regulate all food products that are normally sold at schools. Whole milk has been banned and six cents has been added to funds allotted to creating each school meal.
Speaking at the time of the bill's signing in December 2010, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, said that "as we continue to focus on the twin issues of childhood obesity and hunger, we will increase access to good, quality meals in school cafeterias so the nutritional needs of our youngsters are better met," according to the White House.
As local farmers are projected to receive increased business, these food producers may want to reinvest in harvesting equipment to grow their enterprises. John Deere provides products such as tractors, combines as well as used farm equipment to growers.
Congress looks to connect school cafeterias with local growers through new bill
Local farmers may look to purchase more farming equipment because of new law