Bill > H5742

This bill establishes a universal "Healthy School Meals for All" program in Rhode Island public schools, phased in over three years to provide free breakfast and lunch to all students. Beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, elementary schools will offer free meals, expanding to include middle school students in 2027-2028, and then all students (including high school) by 2028-2029. The bill recognizes the significant challenges of food insecurity, with 40% of Rhode Island households with children experiencing this issue in 2024, and aims to address diet-related health concerns and improve student learning outcomes. Schools will be required to maximize federal funding participation through programs like the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) and seek to improve meal quality by purchasing local foods, preparing scratch-cooked meals, and offering culturally relevant options. The legislation mandates that schools implement strategies to increase meal participation, such as classroom breakfast options and ensuring adequate lunch periods. The state will reimburse school districts for the difference between federal reimbursement rates and the actual cost of meals, and the General Assembly will appropriate dedicated funding to support the program's implementation, including a full-time staff position at the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to administer the initiative.

Budget and Finance

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