Audit Gives Details of School Vending Machine Profits

None by KCPW

(KCPW News) Snack food and drink machines in public schools raise about 3 and a half million dollars a year, according to a new legislative audit. Schools use that money mainly for extra needs like field improvements and new equipment. District officials have been loathe to reveal details of their vending machine contracts for fear lawmakers would take those revenues away.

State Representative Pat Jones says, on the contrary, she thinks schools need that money and use it wisely. However, she will use the audit information in her efforts to get healthier food options in school vending machines. The audit also finds many of the contracts schools have with snack and drink companies are not as well-written or competitive as they could be. Jones is planning legislation to address that issue, as well.

Email to a friendPosted in KCPW Newsroom and Legislative Coverage. Copyright 2008 KCPW