The “junk” charges for electronic deposits into school meal accounts will be prohibited starting in the 2027-2028 academic year for those eligible for free and reduced-price lunches.

Summary

A new USDA rule will prohibit schools from charging transaction fees to low-income families depositing funds in student lunch accounts, effective in the 2027-2028 school year.

This change benefits students eligible for free or reduced-price meals, sparing families extra costs when adding money to accounts.

Advocates and lawmakers, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, support the ban, calling it a victory against “greedy” fees.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack praised the move, stating that USDA aims to eliminate fees for all families regardless of income level.

    • @Solemarc
      4•4 hours ago

      Well, I’m not American.

      In Australia you either bring your own lunch or you bring cash for the school shop. If you have no lunch then the school feeds you from the shop and charges the parents later.

      • Flying Squid
        0•4 hours ago

        Yes, but you also don’t live in a country that you think was directly blessed by Jesus.