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The USDA has released the Reimbursement Rates for 2025-2026. Rates are effective from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.
USDA and HHS each released a notice stating that many programs under the jurisdiction of both departments are now interpreted as “Federal Public Benefits,” including all CNPs and Head Start. The notices aim to address whether citizenship or qualified immigration status must be verified in order for a child to participate in these federal programs.
The USDA released a memorandum rescinding 2022 guidance regarding the interpretation of discrimination based on “sex.” The 2022 guidance redefined the definition of “sex” to include gender identity and sexual orientation. Therefore, the rescission of this guidance will revert USDA’s definition back to its previous interpretation and omit mention of gender identity and sexual orientation.
The USDA released a memorandum stating that they support and encourage states and school districts to experiment with meals to provide interesting, healthy, and diverse meals.
On May 12, 2025, USDA released a final rule titled Child and Adult Care Food Program: Rescission of Obsolete Data Collection Requirements. The final rule removes section 226.25(g) from the Code of Federal Regulation. This regulation required State agencies to collect and report data related to participating institutions during fiscal years 2006-2009.