IL HB3052

School districts must implement and operate a school breakfast program in schools where at least 40% or more students are eligible for free or reduced-price lunches, or are classified as low-income, starting in the next school year if no program currently exists.

School districts may petition their regional superintendent by February 15 annually for an exemption if reimbursement would not fully cover program costs; regional superintendent must hold a public hearing and decide by March 15, with appeals possible to the State Superintendent by April 15.

Breakfast programs must be funded entirely through federal funds and commodities, student charges, and state and local resources; allowable costs include employee compensation, materials, equipment, and transportation specifically for the breakfast program.

State Board of Education shall collect and publicly report annually whether schools operating breakfast programs are using breakfast after the bell models, including classroom breakfast, second chance breakfast, and grab and go options.

State Board of Education shall award grants up to $7,000 per school site on a competitive basis for nonrecurring startup expenses such as equipment, staff training, outreach, and food transport vehicles, with preference given to applicants committing to operate programs for at least 3 school years.