Statement from Kat Taylor on Governor Newsom's 2026-27 Budget Proposal
In a challenging budget year, Governor Newsom's 2026-27 State Budget Proposal reinforces California's national leadership, building on our legacy as the first state to pass universal school meals.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 9, 2026
Contact: Melanie Slocum
melanie.slocum@deweysquare.com
(951) 205-1739
Today, Kat Taylor, co-sponsor of legislation which created California’s School Meals for All Program and Board President of NextGen Policy, released the following statement on the Governor’s 2026-27 Budget Proposal:
“In a challenging budget year, Governor Newsom’s 2026-27 State Budget Proposal reinforces California’s national leadership, building on our legacy as the first state to pass universal school meals. At a time when tariffs and rising food costs are forcing families nationwide to spend more on groceries, this budget’s funding for School Meals for All provides critical, immediate relief. This isn’t just about nutrition; it delivers significant financial savings, putting thousands of dollars back into family budgets annually by ensuring every child has access to healthy food without household burden. Further vital investments in Kitchen Infrastructure and Training and Farm to School programs expand access to and the quality of these meals, meaning more freshly prepared, local food in our cafeterias. These steps lay powerful groundwork for our long-term goal: phasing out ultra-processed foods in school cafeterias, fostering a healthier, more vibrant future for all California students.”
About Kat Taylor
Kat Taylor works in service of restoring social, racial, gender justice, and environmental well-being for an equitable and inclusive world. She is a leading advocate for systemic change, dedicated to cultivating a fairer and more sustainable food system. Kat, with fellow co-sponsors of California’s Schools Meals for All (SFMA) initiative, united over 200 partner organizations to bridge a critical hunger gap for California families. She continues to champion policies and legislation that support California schools in serving freshly-prepared, California-grown meals to advance the health and wellness of all children. Kat also serves as the Board President of NextGen Policy, is the co-founder of Beneficial State Bank, and the Founding Director of the TomKat Ranch Educational Foundation.