Bill > SB1192

This bill addresses school meal policies in Hawaii by prohibiting schools from denying meals to students based on their inability to pay, specifically when a student's meal fund account balance is zero or negative. The legislation requires the Department of Education and schools to use existing data sources like federal assistance programs, Medicaid, and other government records to automatically certify students for free or reduced-price meals, ensuring eligible students receive nutritional support. The bill also strictly forbids schools from stigmatizing students who cannot pay for meals, which means schools cannot use identifying markers like wristbands or hand stamps, assign students chores to pay for meals, or force them to dispose of already-served food. Additionally, the law mandates that any communication about unpaid meal fees must be directed solely to the student's parent or guardian, with schools required to proactively contact parents about negative account balances. The underlying purpose is to ensure that students have consistent access to meals regardless of their family's financial circumstances, recognizing that adequate nutrition is crucial for students' physical health, well-being, and academic performance.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1192&year=2026