This bill mandates the Department of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Department of Education, to create and provide an Internet-based application for the National School Lunch Program and school breakfast programs. The bill amends existing law to specify that school districts must publicize the availability of these programs and make efforts to utilize the new online application. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of ensuring that income-eligible students are not stigmatized within the school environment, proposing measures such as a meal plan or voucher system to maintain anonymity.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that any school district or nonprofit nonpublic school currently using an Internet-based application must transition to the newly developed application within one year of the bill's enactment. It also clarifies that while the online application is encouraged, schools must continue to offer paper applications for those who prefer them. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:33-11