New York Proposes Universal Free School Meals

Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed a plan to provide universal free breakfast and lunch to all students in New York, aiming to eliminate the stigma associated with subsidized meals. This initiative would cover over 2.7 million students, extending benefits to an additional 300,000 children who currently do not qualify under existing federal programs. Hochul estimates that families could save approximately $165 per child each month, translating to nearly $2,000 annually. The proposal is part of her broader affordability agenda and must be approved in the upcoming budget. Support from Democratic leaders in the Legislature is strong, with previous attempts to fund similar initiatives indicating a favorable outlook. If successful, New York would become the ninth state to implement universal free school meals.