All school meals would be free if legislative bill passes

House Bill 1404, championed by State Rep. April Berg, proposes to provide free meals to all public school students in Washington, starting in the fall of 2026. The bill has garnered support from local school districts, which emphasize that it would allow students to concentrate on their education without the distraction of hunger. School officials have pointed out that proper nutrition is vital for learning, and the legislation aims to ensure that no child goes hungry at school. The bill would require the state to cover meal costs not already funded by federal programs, addressing the issue of unpaid meal debt that burdens many families.

In the 2023-2024 school year, a notable percentage of students in districts like Snohomish and Monroe relied on free and reduced-price meals, underscoring the necessity of this initiative. With backing from Gov. Bob Ferguson and a companion Senate bill, the proposal is positioned to reshape the educational landscape by promoting equitable access to nutrition. If successful, House Bill 1404 could significantly impact student well-being and academic performance across Washington. The proposed funding model will be crucial in determining the bill's viability, as local budgets vary widely.