This bill amends current law to extend eligibility for free and reduced-price breakfast and lunch to students who are 21 years old and previously qualified for the National School Lunch Program or National School Breakfast Program at age 20. The new legal language inserted into RSA 189:11-a establishes that these students will remain eligible for meal assistance until they turn 22, graduate, withdraw, or complete their educational program. Additionally, participating public school districts and chartered public schools will be eligible for federal reimbursements for meals served to these qualifying students, with state reimbursements available only for meals not covered by federal funding.

The bill also includes an appropriation of $80,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, to support the implementation and administration of this extended meal eligibility program. The governor is authorized to draw from the education trust fund to meet the state's obligations under this act. The provisions of this bill will take effect on July 1, 2026, and apply to all eligible students enrolled starting with the 2026-2027 school year. The estimated fiscal impact suggests that the program could cost up to $145,000 per year, with specific reimbursement rates outlined for breakfast and lunch meals.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 189:11-a
As Amended by the House: 189:11-a
HB1574 text: 189:11-a