House panel moves forward with first lady’s effort to make school lunches healthier

House bill would make school lunches healthier

WASHINGTON — House Democrats are moving forward on first lady Michelle Obama’s vision for healthier school lunches, propelling legislation that calls for tougher standards governing food in school and more meals for hungry children.

The bill approved by the House Education and Labor Committee Thursday would allow the Agriculture Department to create new standards for all food in schools, including vending machine items. The legislation would spend about $8 billion more over 10 years on nutrition programs.

In a statement, Mrs. Obama said the bill would both combat hunger and help curtail childhood obesity.