Improving Training for School Food Service Workers Act of 2025

# Improving Training for School Food Service Workers Act of 2025 – Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would improve training programs for school cafeteria and food service workers by setting new standards for how the U.S. Department of Agriculture delivers its training. The main changes require that training be offered during workers' regular paid hours at no cost, be conducted in-person when possible, and include hands-on learning experiences.

If training must be scheduled outside of normal working hours, schools would need to inform workers in advance, get their input on scheduling, and pay them for their time. **Who It Affects and Key Details** School food service workers—the people who prepare and serve meals in cafeterias—would be the primary beneficiaries. The bill also indirectly affects students who receive school meals and school districts that employ these workers. An important protection in the bill states that workers cannot be punished for declining to attend training scheduled outside their regular working hours, ensuring participation is truly voluntary when it occurs after hours. **Current Status** The bill was introduced in the Senate by Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and is currently in committee, meaning it's under review and has not yet been voted on by the full Senate.