Assembly Bill 48 aims to enhance state aid for public and private schools that provide free meals to all students. The bill proposes to repeal existing provisions under section 115.341 and introduces new sections that establish eligibility criteria for schools to receive additional state reimbursement for lunches and breakfasts. Specifically, schools must participate in both the National School Lunch Program and the federal School Breakfast Program, and provide one lunch and one breakfast at no cost to any pupil who requests them. The reimbursement amount will be based on the federal reimbursement rates for free meals, minus any federal funds received for those meals.

The bill also amends various sections of the statutes to reflect these changes, including adjustments to the reimbursement process and the definitions of eligible schools and governing bodies. Notably, it ensures that if a school does not meet the eligibility requirements, it will still receive a state reimbursement for lunches and a fixed amount for breakfasts served. The intent of the legislation is to ensure that no child in Wisconsin experiences hunger and that all school-age children have access to at least two nutritious meals during the school day. The changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with transitional provisions for the 2024-25 school year.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 20.255(1)(jg), 20.255, 20.255(2)(cm), 20.255(2)(cn), 115.34(title), 115.34, 115.34(2), 115.341(1), 115.341