This bill mandates that schools participating in the National School Lunch Program in New Jersey must offer at least one plant-based meal daily as part of their regular lunch service. It introduces the definitions of "electing student," who is a student that opts to receive a plant-based meal, and "plant-based meal," defined as a meal that does not contain any animal products. Students or their guardians must submit a formal written notice to the school food authority to elect this option, and schools are required to increase the availability of plant-based meals within 30 days of receiving such notices. All plant-based meals must meet the nutritional standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture.

Additionally, the bill requires school food authorities to develop educational campaigns in the two most commonly spoken languages in each school to inform parents and guardians about school meal programs, including subsidized meals and plant-based options. Schools must report annually on the types of plant-based meals offered and any challenges faced in implementing this initiative. The Secretary of Agriculture and the Commissioner of Education are authorized to adopt necessary regulations to ensure effective implementation, emphasizing the importance of nutritious meals for children's health and success in school.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:33-3.2, 18A:33-27.1