Bill > HR3217

This bill amends the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to expand the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) for Children program to provide food assistance during school closures, not just during summer months. Specifically, the bill defines a "school closure period" as any time an elementary or secondary school is closed, operating remotely, or in a hybrid mode for 5 or more consecutive weekdays. The bill requires states to provide benefits at the "free rate" (the value of breakfast, lunch, and a snack at no cost to the family) for eligible children during these periods, starting in calendar year 2025. The legislation also establishes a sliding scale of federal administrative cost support for state agencies, beginning with 100% federal funding in fiscal year 2026 and gradually reducing to 50% by fiscal year 2031. Additionally, the bill provides $50 million in implementation grants to help states develop or upgrade data systems necessary to administer this expanded program. The goal is to ensure that children who typically receive free or reduced-price meals at school continue to have access to nutritional support during extended school closures.

Education

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3217/all-info