New Mexico

New Mexico became a national leader in school nutrition with the passage of the Healthy Hunger-Free Students Bill of Rights Act in 2023, ensuring free breakfast and lunch for all students in public, charter, and participating private schools. Backed by a $41 million state investment, the law not only guarantees universal meals but also supports kitchen infrastructure improvements and higher nutritional standards. In addition, the state’s New Mexico Grown Farm to School program strengthens local food systems by connecting schools and other institutions with regional farmers, helping to supply fresh, minimally processed foods while supporting local agriculture.