Bill > HB551

This bill establishes a state program to eliminate reduced-price copayments for school lunch and breakfast, with the intent of removing financial barriers for families and reducing administrative burdens for school districts. The superintendent of public instruction will administer a program that distributes replacement funds to school districts that choose to stop charging copayments to students who qualify for reduced-price meals under federal school meal programs. The bill defines a "reduced-price eligible pupil" as a student whose family income meets federal income eligibility requirements for reduced-price meals. The program is funded with $600,000 from the state general fund for each of the fiscal years beginning July 1, 2025 and July 1, 2026, with the legislature intending this appropriation to be part of the ongoing base budget. If the initial appropriation is insufficient, the superintendent may accept private or out-of-state donations and will request additional funding for the next legislative session. The bill recognizes that proper nutrition is foundational for learning and aims to strengthen children's educational opportunities by making school meals more accessible. The program will take effect on July 1, 2025, and the superintendent is directed to adopt necessary rules for its implementation.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1781