KY HJR88

Directs the Kentucky Department of Education to study raising the free and reduced-price school meal eligibility threshold from 185% to 250% of the federal poverty level for schools not participating in the Community Eligibility Provision

Requires consultation with school district food service directors, the School Nutrition Association of Kentucky, the Kentucky Department for Public Health, federal agencies, and child nutrition stakeholders

Final report and recommendations due to the Legislative Research Commission by November 1, 2026

Study must analyze projected student eligibility increases, estimated costs and savings, meal participation rates, food service capacity, and expected nutritional and academic benefits

Report must compare alternative expansion models (sliding scale reimbursement, tiered eligibility, statewide waivers), review other states' policies, and identify statutory, regulatory, or fiscal barriers to implementation