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SC S0147

SC S0147
Free School Meals


summary

Introduced
01/14/2025
In Committee
01/14/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

126th General Assembly

Bill Summary

Amend The South Carolina Code Of Laws By Adding Section 59-36-810 So As To Provide That Eligible Schools That Participate In The School Breakfast Program Shall Provide Breakfast And Lunch Without Charge To All Students And To Provide Guidelines; And By Amending Section 59-10-350, Relating To Length Of Lunch Period And Factors, So As To Require Schools To Provide Thirty Minute Lunch Periods To All Students.

AI Summary

This resolution amends South Carolina law to require eligible schools participating in the School Breakfast Program to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students, with several key provisions. Specifically, the resolution defines "eligible schools" as those participating in the Community Eligibility Provision under federal nutrition acts and mandates that these schools offer meals at no charge to all enrolled students. The Department of Education will reimburse schools the difference between federal reimbursement rates, and schools are encouraged to maximize student meal participation through strategies like serving breakfast in classrooms or outside the cafeteria. Additionally, the resolution modifies existing lunch period requirements, mandating that schools provide 30-minute lunch periods with at least 20 minutes dedicated to students actually eating, separate from time spent moving to and from the cafeteria, waiting in line, and cleaning up. Schools must schedule lunch periods between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., with some flexibility for shortened school days. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval, aiming to improve student nutrition and reduce barriers to meal access in South Carolina schools.

Committee Categories

Education

Sponsors (2)

Last Action

Referred to Committee on Education (on 01/14/2025)

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