WASHINGTON, D.C. January 14, 2026 ‘ President Donald Trump signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act into law during a ceremony in the Oval Office on Tuesday, allowing public schools to once again offer whole and 2% milk in school meals. The bipartisan legislation reverses Obama-era restrictions that limited options to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk.
Surrounded by children, dairy farmers, and administration officials, Trump highlighted the nutritional benefits of whole milk. A large bottle of milk and a green farmer’s cap sat prominently on the Resolute Desk as he signed the bill.
“Today, I’m delighted to sign the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act into law,” Trump said. “It will ensure that millions of school-aged children have access to high-quality milk as we Make America Healthy Again.”
The new law affects the National School Lunch Program, which serves approximately 30 million students daily. Supporters say whole milk provides essential fats, vitamins, and protein that support growth, focus, and satiety in children — without added sugars often used in low-fat varieties.
The signing aligns with the president’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) initiative, championed by figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Dairy industry groups celebrated the move as a boost for farmers facing low milk prices.
During the ceremony, Trump also signed two executive actions:
– One imposing a 25% tariff on semiconductors transshipped through the United States
– Another addressing critical minerals supply chains
White House aides described these measures as steps to strengthen domestic manufacturing and national security.
The event was broadcast live by the White House, drawing widespread attention for its family-friendly focus on school nutrition amid broader policy discussions.
The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act passed Congress with strong bipartisan support in December 2025 and received immediate praise from agricultural and health advocacy groups.
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