Bill > SB109

This bill amends Ohio state law to provide no-cost breakfast and lunch to all students in public and chartered nonpublic schools that participate in the national school breakfast and lunch programs, regardless of their income status. Currently, only students eligible for reduced-price meals receive free meals, but this legislation expands the program to cover all students who are not already receiving free meals. The bill requires the Department of Education and Workforce to reimburse schools for the difference between federal reimbursement rates and the full cost of meals for students who previously paid for their meals. To support this initiative, the bill appropriates $300 million from the General Revenue Fund for each of fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to cover the additional meal program costs. The reimbursement will apply to various types of public schools, including school districts, community schools, STEM schools, educational service centers, special education programs, and juvenile day treatment facilities. By eliminating meal costs for all students, the bill aims to ensure that no student goes hungry and reduce financial barriers to accessing nutrition during the school day.

Budget and Finance

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb109