This bill amends South Dakota law regarding the reimbursement of school districts that provide meals to students. It specifies that if a student qualifies for reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program, the school district cannot charge the student for meals served through these programs. Additionally, the bill allows school districts to charge for meals provided to students who do not qualify for free or reduced-price meals, as well as to employees and other individuals not exempted by the law.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that the Department of Education will reimburse school districts for the costs incurred in providing meals to students eligible for reduced-price meals, after accounting for any reimbursements received from the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program. This ensures that school districts are financially supported in their efforts to provide meals to eligible students while maintaining the integrity of the meal programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/16/2026: 13-35-2