Bill > SB769

This bill establishes the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) Expansion Program within the Maryland State Department of Education, designed to support schools participating in the federal child nutrition programs. The program will provide additional state funding to help cover the difference between federal paid and free meal reimbursement rates, which means schools with high-poverty student populations can offer free meals to all students without additional financial burden. The Department of Education will administer the program by developing a participation process for county boards, distributing funds based on the concentration of poverty in schools and considering geographic diversity. Starting in fiscal year 2027, the Governor is required to include a $10 million annual appropriation for the program. The bill emphasizes that this state funding is meant to complement, not replace, existing federal funds. The Department of Education must submit an annual report to the General Assembly detailing the program's status and outcomes, with the program set to take effect on July 1, 2025. The ultimate goal is to maximize the use of federal and state funds to support nutrition assistance in schools.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0769?ys=2025RS