AR SB308

Federal funds appropriated to the Department of Education for child nutrition programs shall be used to provide school breakfasts and lunches at no cost to qualifying students.

Public schools shall not charge reduced-price copayments to qualifying students for school breakfast or lunch; if federal funds are insufficient, the department shall use Public School Fund Account appropriations to cover the difference.

The Department of Education must submit an annual report by November 15 to legislative education committees detailing application procedures and statistics on student participation in free and reduced-price meal programs.

Arkansas Legislative Audit must audit the Department of Education Child Nutrition Unit by December 15, 2023, to determine if schools effectively serve the intent to expand student access to free meals and comply with federal and state law.

"Qualifying student" is defined as a K-12 student enrolled in public school who is eligible for a reduced-price meal under the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program.