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ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES57th Legislature, 2nd Regular Session |
House: ED DP 10-2-0-0 | APPROP DPA 15-3-0-0 |
HB 2579: appropriation; free school meals; ADE
Sponsor: Representative Gutierrez, LD 18
Caucus & COW
Overview
Appropriates $4,500,000 from the state General Fund (GF) in FY 2027 for free school meals.
History
The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) are federally assisted meal programs that provide low-cost or free lunches and breakfasts that meet federal nutrition standards to children. The Arizona Department of Education (ADE) receives federal funds from the United States Department of Agriculture, then reimburses entities participating in the NSLP or SBP for the costs of providing free or reduced-price lunches or breakfasts. Eligibility for free and reduced-price meals is determined according to a student's household size and income. Currently, federal law prohibits a child from being charged more than 40 cents for a reduced-price lunch or 30 cents for a reduced-price breakfast (42 U.S.C. §§ 1758 and 1773) (ADE) (Income Eligibility Guidelines).
The FY 2025 and FY 2026 General Appropriations Acts appropriated $3,800,000 for onetime school meal grants. ADE must distribute these monies to school districts and charter schools participating in the NSLP or SBP for grants to reduce or eliminate copayments that would otherwise be charged to children who are eligible for reduced-price meals (FY 2025 and FY 2026 Appropriations Report).
Provisions
1. Appropriates $4,500,000 from the state GF in FY 2027 to ADE to provide free school meals for children who meet free and reduced-price lunch income eligibility requirements.
2. States the Legislature intends the appropriation to be considered ongoing funding in future years.
Amendments
Committee on Appropriations
1. Reduces the appropriation from $4,500,000 to $1,600,000.
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5. Initials CH/JD HB 2579
6. 2/11/2026 Page 0 Caucus & COW
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