The bill seeks to improve student access to free meals in public schools, ensuring that no student experiences hunger while attending school. It introduces a new section affirming the legislature's intent to provide meals at no charge to all requesting students and amends existing laws, including RCW 28A.235.135, to allocate state funding based on the number of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals. The bill mandates that starting in the 2026-27 school year, all school districts must provide breakfast and lunch at no cost to any student who requests these meals, regardless of their eligibility for federal programs. It also includes provisions for additional state reimbursement for meals not covered by federal rates.

Additionally, the bill establishes a statewide electronic repository for household income information to streamline the enrollment process for national school lunch and breakfast programs, ensuring eligible students can access meals without traditional applications. It mandates participation in the USDA's community eligibility provision for schools with a certain percentage of identified students. The legislation also introduces bonuses for certificated instructional staff in high-poverty schools and repeals an existing section related to student assistance for free or reduced-price meals, with a null and void clause if specific funding is not provided by a certain date. Overall, the bill aims to enhance access to nutrition programs for students and support educators in high-need areas.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.62.050, 28A.235.160, 28A.235.250, 28A.235.270, 28A.235.285, 28A.235.300, 28A.405.415, 28A.235.260