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 additional state reimbursements for schools participating in both the National School Lunch Program and the federal School Breakfast Program. Schools must provide one lunch and one breakfast at no cost to any pupil who requests them, in compliance with federal nutritional requirements. The Department of Public Instruction (DPI) will reimburse eligible schools 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 reimbursement amounts and eligibility definitions. Notably, it ensures that schools not meeting the new eligibility criteria will still receive state reimbursements for lunches and breakfasts served, albeit at reduced rates. The legislative intent emphasizes the importance of ensuring that no child experiences hunger and that every school-age child has access to at least two nutritious meals during the school day. The new provisions are set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with transitional measures 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