CHESAPEAKE, Va. — In past years, clubs at Western Branch High and other schools could take in thousands of dollars by selling doughnuts that would be gobbled up in minutes.
Such fundraising is now restricted in Virginia - the result of federal regulations spurred by Michelle Obama's push for healthier food in schools.
Clubs must now rely on selling granola bars, fruit cups and light popcorn, or running events such as car washes.
Some argue that the rules are eating a hole in their ability to raise revenue for trips, uniforms and events.
"It's so clearly obvious - there are just not as many options," said Becky Hinton, Western Branch's student activities director, who added that doughnut sales raked in about $3,500 a year.
The first lady's efforts led to passage of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, which aimed to offer students more nutritious meals at school while limiting junk food. The law allows states to give schools exemptions for fundraisers.
Del. Richard Bell, a Northern Virginia Republican, has filed legislation that would grant state schools up to 12 fundraisers a year, lasting up to five days each. The House of Delegates' education committee advanced the proposal by a 21-1 vote this week. Norfolk Democrat Daun Hester was the lone dissenter. The House is scheduled to vote on the bill today.
The legislation does not go as far as other states, but clubs "would take anything they can get," Hinton said.
Starting this academic year, all food sold on school grounds during and around the day must meet calorie, sodium, fat and sugar limits. They also must meet thresholds for ingredients or nutrients. Beverages have their own set of regulations. The law applies to meals sold in cafeterias, vending machines and through fundraisers.
"I understand it," Hinton said. "It's a good cause." But the rules are "almost impossible to meet."