Ohio Senate Plans Free School Meals, North Dakota House Rejects Proposal

In Ohio, a new bipartisan bill aims to provide free meals for K-12 students in public and charter schools, addressing nutritional needs for children who lack access to proper meals at home. Health experts support the initiative, asserting that it could improve education outcomes and reduce truancy. Conversely, North Dakota lawmakers recently rejected a similar proposal, House Bill 1475, which sought to allocate $140 million for free meals for all students. Opponents cited concerns over waste and the underutilization of existing meal assistance programs. However, a separate measure in North Dakota did expand eligibility for free lunches to families earning up to 225% of the federal poverty line, reflecting some recognition of the need for assistance. Public opinion polls indicate significant support for free school meals in North Dakota, despite legislative pushback.