This rulemaking proposes changes to simplify meal pattern and monitoring requirements in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs.
The proposed changes, including optional flexibilities, are customer-focused and intended to help state and local program operators overcome operational challenges that limit their ability to manage these programs efficiently. The original comment period for this rule ends on March 23, 2020. FNS is extending the comment period through April 22, 2020.
FNS is reopening the public comment period for this proposed rule, which was published on January 23, 2020. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreaks have had a strong impact on schools, state agencies, stakeholders and others who are working tirelessly to ensure children receive meals in light of school closures. USDA wants to give these parties, and the public at large, additional time to provide feedback on these proposed reforms.