Be part of advocacy in action when you attend SNA’s Legislative Action Conference in the nation’s capital.
March 8-10, 2026 | Washington, D.C.
Want to share your insights at LAC in Washington, D.C.?
Submit a proposal for an educational session at the Legislative Action Conference! We're looking for engaging topics that explore policy, advocacy, and the issues shaping school nutrition. All perspectives are welcome—help us empower attendees to make an impact on the Hill!
The submission period will remain open until 11:59 pm ET on November 21.
Event Details
Clear Voices. Bold Action
SNA’s Legislative Action Conference (LAC) is one of the most highly anticipated and informative conferences each year. LAC offers attendees the opportunity to experience firsthand the inner workings of the democratic process, learn about current legislative and regulatory challenges facing school nutrition and advocate directly with their legislators.
Need help getting approval to attend LAC26? Use our Dear Supervisor letter template to outline the benefits of attending and make a strong case to your boss!
SNA Political Action Committee Booth
With your help, SNA’s Political Action Committee (SNA PAC) works to support, educate and thank Congressional members who are involved and passionate about SNA issues. Bring your questions and stop by the PAC table at LAC to learn more about how crucial your support is in helping to meet the PAC goals.
Courtesy Policy
Please be courteous to other attendees and speakers. and silence all cellular phones and electronic devices during conference sessions.
Location
J.W. Marriott Washington D.C.
1331 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20004
Click Here for the LAC26 Scheduling Details
Questions? Reach out to meetings@schoolnutrition.org.
REGISTRATION FEES:
- EARLY BIRD RATE—EB (RECEIVED ON OR BEFORE 2/01/26)
- REGULAR RATE—RR (RECEIVED BETWEEN 2/02/26 and 3/11/26)
Do not mail/fax registrations. Registrations will only be accepted online.
| Membership Categories | EB | RR |
| FS Member/Retired Member | $620 | $670 |
| FS Nonmember | $670 | $720 |
| Government Rate (Federal or State) | $620 | $670 |
| Patron (1st Attendee) | $0 | $0 |
| Industry Member | $705 | $755 |
| Industry Nonmember | $805 | $845 |
| Family | $560 | $610 |
Registration Details
- Full registration includes access to all General and Educational Sessions, Luncheons and access to the digital content on the #LAC26 app for up to 30 days post-event. It does not include access to the Pre-Conference Workshop or any ticketed events.
- Confirmation of registration will be sent via email immediately upon processing.
- If you registered others, each individual will receive their own confirmation.
- If you are interested in being invited to the Executive Leadership Program on Saturday, March 7, please see the FAQ section for details.
Refunds/Cancellations
We would be disappointed if you had to miss the conference, but if you must, cancellations and requests for refunds must be received in writing by January 23, 2026. Refunds will be processed less a $75 administrative fee. No refunds will be made after January 23, or for NO SHOWS. Requests may be submitted via email to meetings@schoolnutrition.org.
For state agency professionals, the $75 cancellation fee will be waived, and a full refund will be provided. The usual cancellation deadlines do not apply to state agency members, allowing you to register without financial risk while awaiting travel approval.
Transfers
Registrants who are unable to attend the conference may transfer their registration to another individual within the same organization, provided advance written notice is forwarded to meetings@schoolnutrition.org. Please provide your name and the individual’s name whom you are transferring your registration. All transfers must be received by March 1, 2026, and will not be accepted onsite on a case-by-case basis.
Need to Make a Change?
To make any changes, such as your registration type, contact information or to purchase tickets to an event or register a guest/family member, please contact meetings@schoolnutrition.org or (800) 877-8822.
Click here for SNA's Event Policies
Where is LAC26 being held?
The JW Marriott in Washington, D.C. With award-winning service and an exceptional location, the JW Marriott is ready to help you pursue your passions. Situated on Pennsylvania Avenue in downtown Washington, D.C., this luxury hotel places you near many local attractions, including the White House, National Mall, the Smithsonian Institution and more.
Will there be an LAC26 mobile app?
Yes, search “SNA Conferences” in Apple App Store or the Google Play Store once it is made available. There will also be QR codes onsite you can scan to access the app.
Will I get CEUs for attending?
- 5 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are available for LAC 2026. Attendees should download the training tracker, found in the SNA Resources Center on the app, to get credit for their relevant CEUs.
- Registered Dietitians (RDNs/DTRs) can also earn CPEUs, but must follow a different process and the instruction document will also be available in the LAC app. More specific questions about CPEUs should be sent to education@schoolnutrition.org.
Will LAC include any meals?
Other than the following, attendees are on their own for meals or other refreshments:
Sunday, March 8
- 7:30 am-9:00 am: Coffee Break
- 12:30 pm-1:30 pm: LAC26 Opening Luncheon
- 2:45 pm-3:00 pm: Coffee Break
Monday, March 9
- 7:30 am-8:30 am: LAC Attendee Breakfast
- 10 am-10:15 am: Coffee Break
- 2:00 pm-2:15 pm: Coffee Break
What is the refund policy?
Refunds, minus a $75 administrative fee*, will be issued if SNA Headquarters is notified in writing by the published cancellation deadline for each conference. Cancellation requests can be submitted via email to meetings@schoolnutrition.org. No refunds will be issued for cancellations received after the deadline or for no-shows. Refunds and/or credits will be processed 30 days after the conference.
*For state agency professionals, SNA offers a special exception: if your travel approval is denied, the $75 cancellation fee will be waived, and a full refund will be provided. The usual cancellation deadlines do not apply to state agency members, ensuring you can register early without financial risk while awaiting travel approval.
What are the details of the Executive Leadership Program?
Executive Leadership Program
Saturday, March 7
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Operators and State Agency Members only
Round-trip transportation will be provided from the JW Marriott hotel to Georgetown University.
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, December 8
We are excited to offer the chance to attend SNA’s prestigious Executive Leadership Program at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, taking place before the Legislative Action Conference. This high-level training is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors and is open to all school nutrition operators and state agency members.
With limited spots available for just 50 attendees, we are inviting all operator and state agency members to enter a random drawing for a chance to participate. If you are interested in attending, please indicate your interest during the registration process by Monday, December 8. We will conduct the random drawing and notify selected members on Wednesday, December 10. If you are chosen, we will email you, so please plan your travel accordingly.
Sponsored by: ES Foods, ITW/FEG and SFSPac Food Safety & Sanitation System
What is the attire for LAC26?
Business attire is appropriate for LAC. You should bring appropriate professional attire and dressy, yet comfortable, shoes for your day on Capitol Hill. Washington weather at this time of year can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack for possible chilly or rainy conditions. For current weather forecasts, check www.washington.org.
How can I support the School Nutrition Foundation?
SNF Mix & Mingle
Saturday, March 7
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Support the Foundation by attending and/or sponsoring the School Nutrition Foundation’s Mix & Mingle, held on Saturday, March 7 at the Historic National Press Club in Washington, D.C. This signature fundraising event brings together over 200 school nutrition professionals and industry partners for an evening of networking, refreshments, and celebration.
Event Highlights:
- LAC welcome reception featuring cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres
- Networking with school nutrition leaders and decision-makers
- Historic venue known for hosting global dignitaries
- Proceeds benefit scholarships, equipment grants, professional development, and research for SNA members
Individual Tickets: $35 (available with LAC registration)
Sponsorship Opportunities: Promote your brand and invest in the future of school nutrition
- View Sponsorship Benefits and Commitment Form
How do I prepare for my Capitol Hill visits?
Visit the LAC26 Resources page to access SNA’s 2026 Position Paper, talking points and fact sheets, as well as advocacy tools, tips for getting around Capitol Hill and more. Stay tuned for details regarding an upcoming webinar on SNA’s School Meal Advocacy in 2026.
Saturday, March 7
Executive Leadership Program
8:00 pm—5:00 pm
Operators and State Agency Members only
Round-trip transportation will be provided from the JW Marriott hotel to Georgetown University.
Sign-Up Deadline: Monday, December 8
We are excited to offer the chance to attend SNA’s prestigious Executive Leadership Program at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, taking place before the Legislative Action Conference. This high-level training is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors and is open to all school nutrition operators and state agency members.
With limited spots available for just 50 attendees, we are inviting all operator and state agency members to enter a random drawing for a chance to participate. If you are interested in attending, please indicate your interest during the registration process by Monday, December 8. We will conduct the random drawing and notify selected members on Wednesday, December 10. If you are chosen, we will send you an email, so please plan your travel accordingly.
Sponsored by: E S Foods, ITW/FEG and SFSPac Food Safety & Sanitation System
SNF Mix & Mingle
6:00 pm—7:30 pm
Support the Foundation by attending and/or sponsoring the School Nutrition Foundation’s Mix & Mingle, held on Saturday, March 7, at the Historic National Press Club in Washington, D.C. This signature fundraising event brings together over 200 school nutrition professionals and industry partners for an evening of networking, refreshments, and celebration.
Event Highlights:
- LAC welcome reception featuring cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres
- Networking with school nutrition leaders and decision-makers
- Historic venue known for hosting global dignitaries
- Proceeds benefit scholarships, equipment grants, professional development, and research for SNA members
Fees
- Individual Tickets: $25 (available with LAC registration)
Sponsorship Opportunities
Promote your brand and invest in the future of school nutrition
View Sponsorship Benefits and Commitment Form
Tuesday, March 10
Hill Visits
8:00 am—5:00 pm
Bring your expertise, your enthusiasm and your stories to Washington, D.C., and take advantage of this annual opportunity to get your message across to your state’s Congressional delegation. This day is reserved for visiting U.S. Representatives and Senators on Capitol Hill. If you plan to attend LAC, contact your legislators’ offices now to schedule either in person or virtual meetings for this day.
Hotel Accommodations
J.W. Marriott Washington D.C.
(Headquarters Hotel)
1331 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20004
(800) 393-2503
Check-in: 4:00 pm; Check-out: 12:00 pm
Reservation Information
SNA Discounted Room Rates:
- $354+ single/double
- Each additional person is $30 per night plus tax (15.95%)
REMINDER: Conference registration is required before you will be allowed to reserve a room within SNA’s discounted hotel room block. Your LAC26 registration confirmation will have the housing link to access the LAC26 housing block so you can secure your hotel reservation. If you are having issues booking or updating your room reservation online, please call the JW Marriott Washington, D.C., directly and state that you need assistance with your SNA Legislative Action Conference reservation. Don’t delay! SNA’s discounted room block will be released February 5, 2026, but may be sold out prior to that date. SNA reserves the right to cancel, without notification, any reservation that does not have a corresponding registration for LAC 2026.
Cancellation policy: Reservations must be canceled three (3) working days prior to arrival date to avoid a penalty of one night’s charge and $25 destination fee.
Travel Information
Air Transportation
Travel arrangements can be made by calling Corporate Traveler at (571) 302-7187, by emailing Rachel.Kronlein@corporatetraveler.us or by going to SNA’s online reservations system at https://portal.fcm.travel/SNA. Book early for the best flight options and lowest fare availability. The closest airport is Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). Please be aware that a $35 convenience fee will be included if you decide to book through Corporate Traveler.
Ground Transportation
The JW Marriott is located 15 minutes from Reagan National Airport (DCA) and 2 miles from Union Station.
- Ride-shares are available for approximately $30 from DCA and approximately $70 from IAD.
- Taxis are available at a rate of $30 one-way from DCA and $70 to $90 one-way from IAD and BWI airports.
- If you are taking the Metro from DCA, use the BLUE line toward Largo Town Center and get off at Metro Center Station.
Parking
Valet parking is available at $72/night; $82 for oversized vehicles.
City Information
Planning Your Evening and Local Visits
When planning your visit to the nation’s capital, it’s always best to plan ahead. For information on Washington, D.C.’s attractions and interactive maps of the city, visit www.washington.org.
Review and utilize the following resources to maximize your conference experience and make the most of your time in the nation’s capital. Check back soon for other valuable tools.
SNA Advocacy in Action Webinars (Registration links coming soon)
Mark your calendars! Join us for upcoming LAC planning webinars on Monday, January 26, at 3:00 p.m. ET and Monday, February 23, at 3:00 p.m. ET. During these sessions, we’ll review the 2026 Position Paper and supporting resources, and explore effective strategies for building relationships with your Members of Congress and their staff.
SNA 2026 Position Paper (Coming in January 2026!)
Check back in January for the Position Paper, talking points, infographic, fact sheets and more.
District Profile Worksheet (Coming soon!)
Download, print and complete a district profile sheet for each of your schools so that you have your relevant information ready to share with your lawmakers!
SNA Advocacy Toolkit
Your one-stop guide contains all the information you need to be an effective advocate for school nutrition programs. Be sure to check out pages 14-19 for critical tips on making the most of your meetings with your legislators!
Look Up Your Legislators
Locate your legislator’s bio and contact information! Check if they have voted for or sponsored key school nutrition program bills. Taking a few minutes now to do the research will pay off exponentially during your meetings.
Participate in Online Grassroots Campaigns
Make your voice heard before you even arrive in D.C.! Use SNA’s online grassroots campaigns to send pre-drafted messages to your legislators, urging them to support school nutrition priorities. It only takes a few clicks to make a big impact. Watch for new campaigns leading up to LAC25 and help amplify our voice for change.
SNA’s Political Action Committee (PAC)
Learn more about PAC and how you can get involved. Your donation is critical to the success of our policy goals, so be sure to stop by the PAC Booth at LAC. You can also donate online today.
Getting Around Capitol Hill
Need help getting around for your day on the Hill? Plan ahead—check out this printable map of Capitol Hill.
LAC 2026 Hill Visit Feedback Form
Complete your feedback form after your meeting with your legislator.
Thank you to our generous LAC conference sponsors and Gem Club members! Sponsorship support is vital to SNA’s efforts to provide valuable educational sessions, top-notch speakers and ensure a meaningful and memorable event for all attendees.
Contact Nita Artis, Senior Corporate Sales Specialist, Industry Success & Patron Program, for more details on LAC sponsorships.
LAC Conference Sponsors
LAC Gem Club Sponsors
Diamond Club
Ruby Club
Heartland School Solutions
Rich Products
Pearl Club
Cool School Cafe
Domino’s SMART Slice
SFSPac Food Safety & Sanitation System
Traulsen, a division of ITW/FEG
Vulcan, a division of ITW/FEG
Winston Foodservice
The Legislative Action Conference (LAC26) is one of SNA’s most anticipated and informative events. It offers a unique opportunity for attendees to gain firsthand insight into the democratic process, understand the current legislative and regulatory challenges in school nutrition, and engage directly with lawmakers. Contact Nita Artis, Senior Corporate Sales Specialist, Industry Success & Patron Program, for more details on LAC sponsorships.
Available Sponsorship Opportunities
School Nutrition Foundation Mix & Mingle Fundraising Reception
Kick off LAC26 by becoming a sponsor of the Mix & Mingle Reception! As a sponsor, you'll raise funds to support the dedicated professionals in school nutrition while showcasing your brand to a key audience. Your company logo will be prominently displayed on event signage.
For more details on sponsorship packages, contact Nicole Giebel at ngiebel@schoolnutrition.org.
Mobile App Sponsorship
Maximize your visibility with exclusive promotion on the LAC mobile app. Your message will appear on the app's homepage and in promotional alerts sent to all users. Attendees will keep your brand top-of-mind as they refer to the app throughout the conference for important updates and details.
For more details on sponsorship packages, contact Nita Artis.
Executive Leadership Program
Saturday, March 7, 2026
Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business
The Executive Leadership Program is a unique collaboration between SNA and Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business. This one-day, intensive workshop brings together 50 top school nutrition directors and 5 company representatives to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry today. Topics will focus on marketing nutritious meals, evolving technology, staff training, and navigating industry pressures.
Stay ahead of the curve during this pivotal time in school nutrition. (Topic to be announced.)
For more details on sponsorship packages, contact Nita Artis.
General Session Sponsor
Be the face that introduces the General Session speaker and enjoy prime visibility with your company logo displayed as attendees enter the session room. Recognition will also be featured on the conference website, mobile app, and onsite signage.
This sponsorship is currently sold out.
Flag Pins Sponsorship
Sponsor the official LAC26 flag pins, offering your brand sustained visibility as attendees wear them throughout the event.
This sponsorship is currently sold out.
Conference Wi-Fi Sponsor
Help attendees stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the event. Your company will be front and center each time someone logs in to the conference network.
This sponsorship is currently sold out.
Conference Notebooks Sponsorship
Be remembered long after the conference as the exclusive sponsor of the LAC26 conference notebooks. Attendees will use these practical and stylish notebooks throughout the event and beyond, providing ongoing visibility for your brand.
This sponsorship is currently sold out.
For more details and to explore additional opportunities, visit our Sponsorship & Advertising page.
Future Meetings
| Location | Dates |
|---|---|
| Washington, D.C. | March 8-10, 2026 |
| Washington, D.C. | March 7-9, 2027 |
| Washington, D.C. | March 5-7, 2028 |
| Washington, D.C. | March 4-6, 2029 |