Elimination of reduced-price school meal fees advanced

Senators gave first-round approval April 2 to a measure aimed at making school breakfast and lunch free for students who currently pay reduced prices.

LB966, introduced by Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh, would adopt the Hunger-Free Schools Act and require the state Department of Education to reimburse public and nonprofit private schools for part of the cost of meals served to students who qualify for reduced-price meals under federal guidelines.

Under the bill, the state would cover the difference between the federal reimbursement rate for a free meal and the lower rate for a reduced-price meal, allowing schools to provide those meals at no cost to eligible students, eliminating the reduced-price fee families currently pay.

Cavanaugh said children who are not adequately fed are more likely to struggle in school and face higher risks of long-term health and social challenges, adding that consistent access to meals supports students’ success and well-being.

She acknowledged the proposal requires a funding source, which she plans to secure — potentially through a cash fund and a public-private partnership — before the second round of debate. 

“Investing in our children is the right thing to do,” Cavanaugh said.

Lawmakers voted 32-7 to advance LB966 to select file.