State of Illinois signed legislation to increase access to healthy food options in schools across the state, providing Illinois children with the well-rounded, nutritious meals necessary to maintaining a healthy learning environment.  Under House Bill 4813, food service providers that participate in any of the USDA’s child nutrition programs are exempt from contract bidding requirements. This legislation encourages school districts to give preference to contracts that promote the health and well-being of students, source local food products, and value the welfare of animals, allowing Illinois school districts to improve the evaluation process for potential food service vendors. All potential food suppliers are required to submit data to the school district at the time of the bid, to the best of their ability with an annual update during the term of contract if it is awarded.

House Bill 4813 is the administration’s latest initiative to increase access to healthy foods for Illinoisans of all ages. Earlier this month, Gov. Pritzker established the Healthy Foods Access Program, which expands access to healthy foods in underserved areas. Under this program, grocery stores, corner stores, farmers’ markets, and other small retailers may receive assistance through grants, loans, equipment, or other financial assistance to be awarded on a competitive basis. Additional efforts include public-private partnerships to expand purchasing options for those who receive SNAP benefits, empowering the Illinois Commission to End Hunger to advance the From Food Insecurity to Food Equity: A Roadmap to End Hunger plan, a three-part strategy for connecting residents in need to nutrition assistance programs, and promoting equitable access to food for every Illinoisan. The law is effective immediately.