Bill > SB221

This bill requires the Hawaii Department of Education to provide free breakfast and lunch to students enrolled in public schools beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, with specific eligibility requirements. Students must qualify based on household income (specifically those eligible for reduced-price meals under federal programs), submit an application to the department, and have that application approved. The free meals must meet federal nutrition standards set by the Code of Federal Regulations, ensuring quality and nutritional value. The bill also maintains existing protections that prevent students from being denied meals due to inability to pay, specifically allowing students to receive meals during the initial processing of their free/reduced meal application and for a short period after their meal account reaches a zero balance. To support this initiative, the bill includes an appropriation of state funds to cover the costs of providing these meals after federal funding has been accounted for. The legislation aims to ensure that students have access to nutritious meals regardless of their family's economic circumstances, with an underlying intent to not jeopardize any existing federal aid programs.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=221&year=2026