Bill > SB789

This bill aims to reduce the financial burden on families by modifying the pricing of school meals in Hawaii. Specifically, the bill changes the existing law to require that the Department of Education set school meal prices so that the revenue received is no more than one-quarter (instead of the current one-half) of the cost of preparing the meals. The legislature's findings highlight the economic challenges faced by working families and the importance of making nutritious meals accessible to students. By lowering the required revenue threshold, the bill seeks to make school meals more affordable, increase student participation in meal programs, and support the health and academic achievement of children. The department is still required to provide lower rates or free meals to children based on their economic need, and meal prices can be adjusted annually based on the previous year's costs. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 3000, which appears to be a placeholder date typical in legislative drafting.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=789&year=2026