H.R.2402 - No Hungry Kids in Schools Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2402, the "No Hungry Kids in Schools Act," proposes to amend the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act. The amendment aims to establish statewide community eligibility for special assistance payments related to school lunches. This would allow states to provide free meals to all students in applicable schools, provided the state contributes funding to cover 100% of the free reimbursement rate.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would expand access to free school lunches for students in states that choose to participate. States would need to allocate funds to cover the full cost of the program. This could lead to improved student health and academic performance, but also increased state spending.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to nutritious meals for students, potentially improving health outcomes.
- Reduced administrative burden for schools in participating states by simplifying eligibility requirements.
- Potential for improved academic performance due to better nutrition.
- May reduce stigma associated with free and reduced-price lunch programs.
- Could lead to decreased food insecurity among school-aged children.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased financial burden on state governments to fund the program.
- Potential for inefficient use of resources if not properly managed.
- Possible opposition from states that are unwilling or unable to allocate the necessary funding.
- May not address the root causes of poverty and food insecurity outside of the school environment.
- Potential for increased federal oversight and regulation of state school lunch programs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause (Preamble). Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare, and providing food for children arguably falls under this power. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).