Renaming the National School Lunch Program Act of 2023
Impact
By renaming this act, the bill acknowledges and elevates the importance of civil rights advocacy in expanding access to vital nutrition programs for children. This renaming aligns the goals of the National School Lunch Program with the values of equity and justice, emphasizing that education and nutritional access should be available to all children, regardless of their background. The implications of such a recognition extend beyond a mere name change, potentially influencing future legislation related to child nutrition and welfare.
Summary
House Bill 4466, titled the 'Renaming the National School Lunch Program Act of 2023,' seeks to rename the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to the Jean E. Fairfax National School Lunch Act. This change honors Jean E. Fairfax, a notable civil rights activist who significantly contributed to equitable educational access and reform in nutrition programs aimed at marginalized communities. The bill is a step towards recognizing individuals who have fought for inclusivity and equity in policy, particularly in a program that affects the nutritional welfare of children across the nation.
Contention
While the bill appears straightforward, it raises discussions regarding the historical context of the individuals associated with existing legislation. Richard B. Russell's legacy included opposition to civil rights measures and a commitment to segregation, which starkly contrasts with the values represented by Fairfax. Some lawmakers and stakeholders may argue against conflating these historical narratives, fearing that renaming could diminish the complexity of past legislative battles in civil rights. These discussions reflect larger conversations on legacy, representation, and the role of historical figures in modern governance.
To direct the Secretary of Education to carry out a grant program to support the recruitment and retention of paraprofessionals in public elementary schools, secondary schools, and preschool programs, and for other purposes.
To amend the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to require schools to provide fluid milk substitutes upon request of a student or the parent or guardian of such student, and for other purposes.
Assault Weapons Ban of 2023 This bill makes it a crime to knowingly import, sell, manufacture, transfer, or possess a semiautomatic assault weapon (SAW) or large capacity ammunition feeding device (LCAFD). The prohibition does not apply to a firearm that is (1) manually operated by bolt, pump, lever, or slide action, except for certain shotguns; (2) permanently inoperable; (3) an antique; (4) only capable of firing rimfire ammunition; or (5) a rifle or shotgun specifically identified by make and model. The bill also exempts from the prohibition the following, with respect to a SAW or LCAFD: importation, sale, manufacture, transfer, or possession related to certain law enforcement efforts, or authorized tests or experiments; importation, sale, transfer, or possession related to securing nuclear materials; and possession by a retired law enforcement officer. The bill permits continued possession, sale, or transfer of a grandfathered SAW, which must be securely stored. A licensed gun dealer must conduct a background check prior to the sale or transfer of a grandfathered SAW between private parties. The bill permits continued possession of, but prohibits sale or transfer of, a grandfathered LCAFD. Newly manufactured LCAFDs must display serial number identification. Newly manufactured SAWs and LCAFDs must display the date of manufacture. The bill also allows a state or local government to use Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program funds to compensate individuals who surrender a SAW or LCAFD under a buy-back program.