Bill > H7793

This bill establishes a statewide "healthy school meals for all" program in Rhode Island public schools, phasing in universal free breakfast and lunch over three years, starting with elementary schools in the 2027-2028 school year, adding middle schools in 2028-2029, and including all high school students by the 2029-2030 school year. Public schools are directed to maximize federal funding through programs like the National School Lunch Program and the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), which allows schools to offer free meals to all students without individual applications if a certain percentage of students are from low-income households. The bill also emphasizes improving meal quality by complying with nutrition standards, prioritizing locally grown foods, preparing scratch-cooked meals, and involving students and families in menu development. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will reimburse schools for the difference between federal free reimbursement rates and what they actually receive, and the General Assembly will appropriate funds to cover the costs of these universal meals and support program administration. This initiative aims to combat food insecurity among students, improve learning outcomes, and reduce diet-related chronic diseases, with the act taking effect on July 1, 2027.

Budget and Finance

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