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NH HB1574

Bill

Status

Engrossed

2/25/2026

Primary Sponsor

Toni Weinstein

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Authorizes school boards to extend free and reduced price meal eligibility to special education students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) who are age 21 and continuing education until age 22

  • Requires the state to reimburse school boards from the general fund at the USDA reimbursement rate for meals provided to these eligible students

  • Applies beginning with the 2026-2027 school year

  • Estimated state cost of up to $145,000 per year for meal reimbursements, plus $109,000-$119,000 annually for a new Department of Education position to administer the program

  • Currently 118 students with IEPs are aged 21-22 statewide; school boards would need to develop separate eligibility applications since federal applications cannot be used for students over 21

Legislative Description

Relative to the extension of free and reduced price breakfast and lunch for students under the age of 22 and making an appropriation therefor.

Last Action

Committee Report: Ought to Pass, 03/26/2026; Vote 5-0; Consent Calendar; Senate Calendar 11

3/12/2026

Committee Referrals

Education2/25/2026
Finance2/19/2026
Education Funding12/10/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available