Bill > SB172

This bill establishes the Missouri Free School Meals Program, which aims to ensure that all students in Missouri schools receive free breakfast and lunch. The program applies to school districts, public schools, charter schools, and private or religious schools that participate in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National School Lunch Program. Schools with a lower identified student percentage must participate in the program, while schools with a higher percentage must use the USDA Community Eligibility Provision. Participating schools are required to provide up to two free meals per school day to all students (one breakfast and one lunch), and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will provide state funding to cover the difference between the federal reimbursement rate and the actual federal reimbursement received by the school. The department is also tasked with creating rules to implement the program, with the understanding that these rules must comply with existing state legislative review processes. The program is set to take effect after August 28, 2025, and aims to reduce financial barriers to student nutrition by ensuring all students have access to free meals regardless of their family's income level.

Education

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=485