Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about the School Food Modernization Act which would help America's school cafeterias modernize its equipment and infrastructure. Earlier this week, I was proud to introduce this act with Congressman Mark DeSaulnier. We know nutrition plays a critical role in a child's development and for far too many children, sometimes the only meal of the day is the one that they receive at school. That is why it is essential to help schools access funding to purchase modern kitchen equipment and infrastructure. Some schools may be using the same equipment so long that it not only serves a student, but, quite frankly, served that student's parent as well. Food service staff needs modern facilities to serve high-quality, nutritious meals that meet the school nutritional standards. Our bill allows schools to participate in a loan assistance program from USDA to help them acquire new kitchen equipment. Schools would be eligible for Federal guarantees, up to 80 percent of the loan. It also strengthens training for food service personnel who want more education on how to prepare healthier meals. I urge my colleagues to cosponsor this legislation to help students form a lifetime of healthier eating habits. ____________________”