Bill > HB1574

This bill authorizes school districts in New Hampshire to extend free and reduced lunch benefits to special education students who are 21 years old and continuing their individualized education program (IEP) until they reach age 22. An IEP is a specialized educational plan designed for students with disabilities to provide tailored support and services. The bill allows school boards to provide these meal benefits and mandates that the state will reimburse the school districts through the general fund at the same rates established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for free and reduced price meals. To be eligible, a student must have an existing IEP and be 21 years old while continuing their educational program. The provisions will apply to students enrolled beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, addressing a current gap in nutritional support for special education students who remain in school beyond the typical age limit. The fiscal analysis suggests this could impact approximately 118 students and cost up to $145,000 annually, though no specific funding appropriation is included in the bill. The legislation aims to support the health and nutritional needs of special education students by ensuring they maintain access to meal benefits during their extended educational program.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2087&inflect=2