Congress is considering a $12 million Vegan Plan to improve school lunches nationwide, with a focus on providing dairy-free milk and plant-based meals to children. This initiative comes as a response to a survey where nearly 70 percent of American adults agreed that schools should offer healthier, animal-free options to students. The Plant Powered School Meals Pilot Act, introduced by Democratic Senator Adam Schiff, aims to support schools in increasing their plant-based options through grants, totaling $12 million.

The bill, co-sponsored by several other senators, includes provisions for culinary training for foodservice staff, procurement costs for ingredients from local producers, and nutrition education for students. Research suggests that plant-based foods can support children's health by providing important nutrients and helping to prevent obesity and other health conditions. The act is currently being reviewed by the US Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, with potential for debate and a vote in the future.