Bill to ensure access to meal programs in schools passes

New Jersey’s General Assembly passed a bill that aims to ensure access to meal programs in public schools across the state. Bill A-5164, sponsored by Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin and Assemblywomen Annette Quijano, Angela McKnight, and Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, has cleared the legislative hurdle.

The legislation requires school districts to provide parents and guardians with comprehensive information about the National School Lunch Program and the federal School Breakfast Program. This information includes details about eligibility for free or reduced-price meals, instructions on application procedures, and the flexibility to submit applications throughout the academic year.

“Through this bill, we are aiming to increase participation in these meal programs so that no child goes hungry during the school day,” said Speaker Coughlin (D-Middlesex) in a press release. “This legislation will help us ensure that every student who is eligible for free or reduced-priced meals knows exactly how to access them.”

The bill mandates that parents and guardians must either submit an application for the meal programs or sign a card indicating they have received the application and choose not to participate. “It’s well documented that students without consistent and nutritious meals are unable to achieve academically, emotionally, or socially,” said Assemblywoman Quijano (D-Union). “Seeking parental sign-off or waiver is an important way to ensure that the greatest number of people possible are being notified of these critical programs.”

While electronic provision of information is permitted, the bill also requires schools to provide paper copies of the details to students at the start of each academic year.

“We know that even in 2023, not everyone has access to the Internet, making it hard for some people to learn about life-enhancing programs such as the National School Lunch Program or the federal School Breakfast Program,” said Assemblywoman Reynolds-Jackson (D-Mercer, Hunterdon). “By requiring everyone to receive physical copies of this information, we are seeking to level the playing field and make sure no child goes without food due to their socioeconomic status.”

The passing of this bill signals a proactive effort by the New Jersey Assembly to address food insecurity among students and ensure equitable access to essential meal programs within public schools.