This bill proposes the creation of a new section in chapter 15.1-07 of the North Dakota Century Code, aimed at providing free breakfast and lunch to all students enrolled in participating entities, which include school districts, nonpublic schools, and tribal schools. The bill outlines that the superintendent of public instruction will reimburse these entities for the meals provided to students in kindergarten through grade twelve at no cost to the students. The reimbursement will be based on the applicable federal free reimbursement rate multiplied by the number of meals served, minus any other federal or state reimbursements received by the participating entity.

Additionally, the bill establishes criteria for participating entities to qualify for reimbursement, including participation in federal meal programs, provision of meals at no cost, and compliance with federal and state standards. It also encourages entities to maximize federal reimbursements and accommodate students with dietary restrictions due to disabilities or medical needs. To support this initiative, the bill appropriates $140 million from the state general fund for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027, to facilitate the reimbursement process for these meals.