By Regan McCarthy
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wfsu/local-wfsu-987505.mp3
Tallahassee, FL – Efforts are on schedule to move the School Nutritional Program from under the purview of the Department of Education to the Department of Agriculture. The Florida legislature voted last session to make the switch. It's set to go into effect January 1st, but Regan McCarthy reports first officials need an okay from the Federal government.
Robin Safley is overseeing the program's transition. She told legislators during a Wednesday update she feels confident the program will receive the required waiver from the US Department of Agriculture.
"I was very encouraged by their questions in that it didn't go to the subject matter of why we're doing this, and the response behind this. But just making sure that the wheels didn't fall off the bus since It's mid-term."
Safley says she's moving forward under the assumption the department change will get approval. Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam named the switch as a top priority last session. He says his department is better equipped to ensure students get the state's fresh fruits and vegetables.