Quarterly Policy Update: January 2026
February 5, 2026
In the last three months, multiple updates have been issued by USDA and Congress. In early January, we saw the release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, as well as the passing of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act into law. In addition, USDA has approved off-site monitoring waivers for State agencies, released the 2026 SFSP reimbursement rates and rural designation map, and hosted a webinar on serious deficiency in the CACFP. NCA has also developed new resources on CACFP program integrity to support our community. Keep reading to see what you’ve missed and stay up to date with CACFP policy!
Executive Actions
2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans Released
On January 7, 2026, the United States Department of Agriculture and Department of Health and Human Services released the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs). The 2025-2030 DGAs recommend prioritizing high-quality protein, healthy fats, fruits, vegetables and whole grains, while avoiding highly processed foods and refined carbohydrates. NCA continues to monitor for any potential updates to child nutrition programs to align with the DGAs.
Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act Signed into Law
The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act was signed by the President and passed into law on January 14, 2026. This bill updates the milk requirements for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) to allow the service of whole and reduced-fat milk, which was previously unallowable. The law does not implement any changes to the milk requirements for CACFP, SFSP or the School Breakfast Program.
USDA Updates
2026 SFSP Reimbursement Rates Released
USDA released the reimbursement rates for the Summer Food Service Program. These rates are in effect from January 1, 2026 to December 31, 2026. On average, the 2026 rates have increased by 3.7% from last year.
2026 Rural Designation Map Updated
USDA released an updated Rural Designation Map. This map can be used by State agencies and sponsoring organizations to help determine eligibility for SFSP rural non-congregate sites for summer 2026.
USDA Webinar: Serious Deficiency in the CACFP
At the start of 2026, the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) hosted a webinar on the Serious Deficiency Process. This training focused on the oversight by State agencies of institutions– sponsoring organizations and independent centers contracting directly with the State agency. During the training, FNS shared that this would be the first in a series of webinars on the serious deficiency process. When asked about the serious deficiency final rule, FNS encouraged the audience to keep checking the Federal Regulatory Agenda for planned rulemaking efforts.
FY26 Off-Site Monitoring Waivers
For FY26, USDA sent out a specific CACFP State Waiver Request Template for Sponsoring Organizations to Conduct Offsite Monitoring of Day Care Homes. The waiver template only applies to the monitoring of family day care homes and permits only one off-site visit for the fiscal year. At least 20 States have submitted their waiver request using the USDA template and at least two states have submitted waivers for additional visits to be conducted virtually.
New Program Integrity Resources
Behind every CACFP meal is a system of oversight designed to maintain public trust and protect the people the program serves. Sponsoring organizations ensure compliance, accountability and continued access to nutritious meals while providing ongoing technical assistance. NCA has developed resources that explain how program integrity is upheld in the CACFP.
- Program Integrity in the CACFP: The Role of Sponsoring Organizations
- The Critical Role of Sponsoring Organizations in CACFP Program Integrity
- Sponsoring Organizations: Increased Access and Program Integrity in the CACFP
- Enroll with Sponsoring Organizations: Your Key to Success in the CACFP
For more information contact policy@cacfp.org.