The bill amends sections 3301.91 and 3313.819 of the Revised Code to ensure that all public and chartered nonpublic school students receive breakfast and lunch at no cost. It establishes a reimbursement system for schools participating in the national school breakfast and lunch programs, where the Department of Education and Workforce will reimburse schools for the difference between federal reimbursement rates for free, reduced-price, and paid meals. The bill specifies that the reimbursement will cover both breakfast and lunch for students who do not qualify for free or reduced-price meals.

Additionally, the bill removes the requirement that only students eligible for reduced-price meals receive free breakfast and lunch, thereby expanding access to all students regardless of their eligibility status. The legislation includes an appropriation of $300 million from the General Revenue Fund to support these meal programs, ensuring that the necessary funds are available for the implementation of this initiative.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3301.91, 3313.819