The proposed legislation establishes a "Healthy School Meals for All" program in Rhode Island, aimed at providing universal access to free breakfast and lunch for all public school students. The program will be phased in over three years, starting with elementary schools in the 2026-2027 school year, followed by middle schools in the 2027-2028 school year, and finally including high schools by the 2028-2029 school year. The bill mandates that participating schools provide meals without charge to all enrolled students and encourages educational entities to maximize federal funding through various programs to support the initiative.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific operational requirements for the school meal programs, including improving meal quality, increasing student participation, and reporting on the use of locally sourced food. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will be responsible for reimbursing schools for the difference between federal reimbursement rates and the costs of providing meals. The legislation also includes provisions for annual appropriations to support the program and the hiring of staff to aid in its implementation. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.