HB 566 Summary

• Local boards of education may allow schools to donate surplus, non-expired food to charitable organizations for redistribution to needy students in federal school nutrition programs.

• Donations must be coordinated through a charitable organization official directly affiliated with the school, such as a teacher, counselor, staff member, or parent; food may be received, stored, and distributed at the school.

• School employees may volunteer to assist in preparing and distributing donated food, and all applicable federal and state food safety requirements must be followed during handling, storage, and distribution.

• Local boards may adopt policies allowing donated food to be provided at no cost to students receiving free or reduced-cost meals, without requiring consumption at school or prohibiting students from taking food off campus.

• School employees, schools, and persons performing services for nonprofit organizations are protected from civil and criminal liability for food donations made in good faith, except in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct.