The bill S. 425 aims to enhance access to free school meals for students living in poverty in South Carolina. It mandates that each public school district annually identify the number of students in poverty, defined as those qualifying for Medicaid, SNAP, TANF benefits, or who are homeless, transient, or in foster care. The bill also requires districts to adopt resolutions regarding their participation in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) for federal meal reimbursements, with provisions for districts facing financial hardship.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that school districts must ensure parents or guardians of eligible students receive necessary applications and assistance for free and reduced lunch programs. It prohibits any public identification or punishment of students who cannot pay for meals, including actions such as denying meals or penalizing participation in extracurricular activities. The bill emphasizes the importance of confidentiality and communication regarding meal debt, directing all communications to parents or guardians rather than the students themselves.

Statutes affected:
03/05/2025: 59-63-795
03/26/2025: 59-63-795
04/01/2025: 59-63-795
04/29/2025: 59-63-795
Latest Version: 59-63-795