Bill > S3956

This bill: Requires schools and nonpublic schools with lunch programs to provide free lunch to increasing numbers of income-eligible students, reaching full implementation where all students receive free lunch regardless of income or federal eligibility after a five-year phase-in period. The bill defines various types of eligible students, including those who are categorically eligible, income-eligible, or statutorily eligible for subsidized school meals. It also requires the state to provide funding to reimburse schools for the unreimbursed costs of providing free lunch to federally ineligible students during the phase-in period. The bill establishes requirements and guidelines for schools to identify eligible students, certify their eligibility, and inform parents about the availability of subsidized meals. It also prohibits schools from denying or stigmatizing students who cannot pay for unsubsidized meals.

Education

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2022/S3956