HI SB43

Establishes universal free school breakfast and lunch program for all students enrolled in Hawaii Department of Education schools beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, regardless of family income or federal program eligibility.

Free breakfasts must meet federal meal requirements under 7 Code of Federal Regulations section 220.8, and free lunches must meet requirements under section 210.10.

Removes previous provisions allowing students to be denied meals during application processing periods or account grace periods; instead guarantees meals to all requesting students.

Appropriates unspecified general revenue funds to the Department of Education's school food services branch for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to cover total plate costs after federal funding is accounted for.

Takes effect July 1, 2025.