USDA is cracking down on junk fees associated with school meals.
Beginning in the 2027-2028 school year, USDA says students eligible for reduced lunches should not be charged for electronic payments for those meals. The policy affects families under 185 percent of federal poverty guidelines.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau says each year, processing fees for school meals cost families as much as $100 million.
Vilsack says the ultimate goal is for every student to get a free meal while in school.
