Harper Moves Legislation to Make Illinois School Meals Healthier

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, has passed legislation out of committee aimed at improving the quality of food served in Illinois schools.

“Schools are more than just places to learn—they play a big role in shaping our kids’ daily lives,” Harper said. “For many students, the meal they get at school might be the only one they eat all day. That meal should not be full of high sodium and fat that can lead to obesity and other health issues.”

House Bill 5507 establishes the Food Reform to Ensure Student Health Act, which is designed to make school meals healthier by removing unhealthy foods. Starting in 2029, schools will begin taking these items off their menus, and by 2032, food companies will no longer be allowed to sell heavily processed or “junk” foods to schools. The law also holds food suppliers more accountable by requiring them to be transparent about what they sell and to report on their progress each year. Additionally, school staff will receive training so they know how to prepare and serve healthier meals, ensuring students have access to better food at school.

“This is a common-sense step to make sure our students have access to better food,” Harper said. “When students eat healthier meals, they are better prepared to focus, learn, and succeed.”

The bill is now headed to the House floor for further consideration.