Free school meals back on the table in new Rhode Island bill

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – All public-school students in Rhode Island could soon have access to free meals.

Senator Jonathon Acosta and Representative Enrique George Sanchez have reintroduced a bill to provide free meals to students of public schools.

The new legislation would amend the General Laws to require free breakfast and lunch be available for all students.

“The rising prices of housing, utilities and food mean that some families who don’t currently qualify for free school meals can’t afford them, leaving them hungry or in debt,” Sanchez said. “It’s time to make sure no student attends school on an empty stomach.”

The bill would eliminate the language that states only students and families who meet certain financial requirements be offered free lunch, in addition to adding “free breakfast” to the statute.

“The evidence is crystal clear that we can improve learning, improve student health and reduce social stigma, all with just two meals each school day,” Acosta said. “The status quo lets too many students fall through the cracks.”

The bill previously passed in the Senate but not the House in the 2023 legislative session.