HB 3435
Phases in the requirement that school districts offer lunch and breakfast to students at no charge, regardless of household income.
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Support
100%
Oppose
0%
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill gradually requires Oregon school districts to provide lunch and breakfast to all students at no cost, regardless of household income. It mandates that districts offering breakfast at a school site also offer it early in the day, with exceptions. The bill also establishes nutrition standards for reimbursable meals, directs the Department of Education to seek federal program participation, and allocates funds for equipment upgrades and covering past meal costs. An emergency declaration allows the bill to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Key provisions
- Requires school districts to offer lunch and breakfast at no cost to all students.
- Mandates breakfast availability after the start of the school day for districts offering breakfast on-site.
- Establishes nutrition standards for reimbursable meals paid for by state funds.
- Directs the Department of Education to pursue federal programs for free/reduced price meals.
- Allocates funds for covering past meal costs and equipment upgrades.
- Requires districts to apply for waivers if they cannot meet the requirements.
- Sets a reimbursement rate for school districts offering meals at no cost.
Who is affected
- School districts
- Students
- Parents/Guardians
- Oregon Department of Education
- School nutrition professionals
Notable changes
- Phases in the requirement for universal free meals, moving away from income-based eligibility.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsors
Arguments in favor
Reasons to support this legislation.
Supporters of HB 3435 believe that providing free school meals to all Oregon students is crucial for addressing food insecurity, promoting equality, and improving academic outcomes. They argue that every child deserves access to nutritious meals, regardless of their financial situation, and that the current system is inadequate, leaving many students without adequate nutrition. Proponents cite benefits such as increased participation, reduced stigma, improved attendance and learning outcomes, and enhanced community building opportunities. Many testifiers share personal stories highlighting the positive impact of school meals on students' well-being, academic success, and future prospects. They also reference research and expert opinions supporting the importance of addressing food insecurity in schools, including its impact on student performance, attendance, and overall educational experience.
Source: Testimony Summaries
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