H.R. 3104 - Food Deserts Act of 2017

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to develop grants to provide funds to states that will support the establishment and operation of grocery stores in underserved communities, also known as food deserts. A state receiving the grant must follow certain criteria such as providing fresh produce, emphasizing healthy foods, and charging prices at or below market averages. Additionally, priority is given to those who plan to provide classes or educational information about a healthful diet and that plan to source food from local farms or gardens.

• Introduced in House 6/29/17
• Latest Action: 7/24/17 – Referred to the Subcommittee on Nutrition

H.R. 2967 - Nutrition Coordinators for Local Healthy Youth Act

Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to create a grant program that will appoint nutrition coordinators to oversee local school nutrition policies in educational agencies. The funds should be used for projects that will promote a healthy environment in schools such as ensuring compliance with school wellness policies, coordinating nutrition education programs, and encouraging students to participate in healthy eating and physical activity.

• Introduced in House 6/20/17
• Latest Action: 6/20/17 – Referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce

H.R. 2401 - Anti-Lunch Shaming Act of 2017

Amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to establish guidelines for the treatment of a child participating in the National School Lunch (or Breakfast) Program and either does not have funds to pay for a meal or has outstanding credit for meals. The school food authority may not: publically identify a child in any way, require a child to dispose of food after it has been served, or require a child to perform extra chores or activities not generally required. Outstanding credit must be addressed through communication with the child’s parent or guardian.

• Introduced in House 5/8/17
• Latest Action: 5/8/17 – Referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce

Bills can be followed at www.congress.gov.