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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House2026-04-22

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill requires all North Carolina public schools to provide free breakfast and lunch to every student at no cost. The state would appropriate $116 million annually beginning in fiscal year 2026-2027 to fund these meals, with the State Board of Education distributing funds to school food authorities based on school size, student need, and other factors.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue that free meals remove barriers to education by ensuring all students have access to adequate nutrition regardless of family income, which improves academic performance and attendance.
• •They contend that universal programs are simpler to administer than means-tested programs, reduce stigma for low-income students, and promote equity by treating all students equally.
• •Advocates also point out that well-nourished students learn better and that this investment in student health benefits society long-term.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents worry about the significant cost to the state budget ($116 million annually) and whether these funds could be better spent on other education priorities or if they represent sustainable long-term spending.
• •They argue that universal free meals benefit families who can afford to pay, making it an inefficient use of taxpayer money compared to targeted assistance for truly low-income students.
• •Some also raise concerns about whether schools can operationally handle providing free meals to all students and question whether the appropriated amount will be sufficient.