Congress enacts legislation, or law, that governs the child nutrition programs and must be signed by the President. USDA develops program regulations, authorized by the legislation, through the rulemaking process, which includes gathering input from the public.
Legislation can only be changed by Congress, while program regulations can be updated by USDA. Child nutrition program operations must comply with requirements established in both legislation and regulations. Below are the primary legislation and regulations specifically applicable to the federal child nutrition programs.
Legislation
Regulations
- Part 210 National School Lunch Program
- Part 215 Special Milk Program for Children
- Part 220 School Breakfast Program
- Part 225 Summer Food Service Program
- Part 226 Child and Adult Care Food Program
- Part 227 Nutrition Education and Training Program
- Part 235 State Administrative Expense Funds
- Part 240 Cash in Lieu of Donated Foods
- Part 245 Determining Eligibility for Free and Reduced Price Meals and Free Milk in Schools
- Part 292 Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer Program