Bill > HB87

This bill establishes a universal free school meals program for all public school students in Hawaii, beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. The legislation is based on research showing that providing free meals to all students, regardless of family income, offers numerous benefits including improved student health, reduced suspension rates, and decreased stigma around meal assistance. Under the new law, public schools must provide free breakfast and lunch to every enrolled student, meeting federal nutritional standards, and no student can be denied a meal. The bill requires the Department of Education to maximize federal funding opportunities, conduct annual analyses for federal program eligibility, and ensures that the state will reimburse schools quarterly for meals provided at no charge. The legislature believes this approach will reduce child hunger, improve student well-being, and support learning by ensuring students are not distracted by hunger. To implement the program, the bill includes an appropriation of funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, with the goal of creating a comprehensive, equitable meal program that supports all students' nutritional needs.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=87&year=2025