Federal bill would expand universal free meal access

Congresswoman Katie Porter has introduced a new bill that would expand universal free meal access for students while cutting down on paperwork for school nutrition professionals.

Titled the No Hungry Kids in Schools Act, the bill would amend the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to “establish statewide community eligibility for certain special assistance payments, and for other purposes,” according to the bill’s official title. The legislation’s full text has yet to be published online.

“Keeping kids from going hungry is one of the best investments our nation can make in our communities and in our economy,” Porter said in a statement. “Removing burdensome paperwork requirements will save schools money and allow more families—particularly the ones most in need—to get help. The No Hungry Kids in Schools Act will improve student achievement, attendance, and behavior, strengthening our workforce of tomorrow.”

After the summer expiration of the U.S. Department of Agriculture waivers that allowed schools to serve free meals to all students, universal free school meals have become a topic of nationwide discussion. The School Nutrition Association has continued to show its support for making school meals free to all students, and food industry leaders have also come out in support of offering free meals.

Though no recent bills have been introduced at the federal level prior to this that would expand school meal access nationwide, many states have taken steps to provide free meals at school.

Nevada, Massachusetts and others have continued to offer universal free school meals this current school year. Other states, such as North Carolina and Virginia, have extended free meals for this school year but only for students who qualify for reduced-price meals. California, Maine and, most recently, Colorado, are offering free school meals as a permanent part of the school day.