AZ HB2579

Appropriates $4,500,000 from the state general fund in fiscal year 2026-2027 to the Arizona Department of Education for free school meals.

Targets children who meet income eligibility requirements for free and reduced-price lunches under the federal National School Lunch and Child Nutrition Acts (42 USC sections 1751-1793).

Legislature declares intent for this appropriation to be considered ongoing funding in future years, not a one-time allocation.

Introduced with bipartisan support from 21 co-sponsors in the Arizona House of Representatives.