New Hampshire State Senator Donovan Fenton has introduced legislation that aims to broaden access to free meals in schools. His proposal, Senate Bill 517, would raise the income limit for free meals to 200 percent of the federal poverty threshold. Currently, the eligibility is capped at 130 percent of the poverty level, while reduced-price meals are available for families earning up to 185 percent.

Specifically, a household of four with an annual income of $64,300 would fall into the proposed increased eligibility category. Fenton highlighted the ongoing rise in living costs, emphasizing the necessity for children to focus on their education rather than hunger.

The financial implications of the proposed changes would require shared costs; both the state and participating school districts would equally split the expenses for the expanded meal program. The senator’s previous attempt to pass similar legislation encountered challenges, as it successfully cleared the Senate with a voice vote but was ultimately rejected by the House in January, which raised concerns over the financial burden associated with the initiative.

Concerns have been voiced by opponents, including Representative Dan McGuire, who expressed worries about the potential millions in costs associated with the bill. The fiscal impact of SB 517 remains unpredictable since it hinges on the number of school districts that ultimately choose to participate.

Despite the uncertainties, Fenton believes that the investment in children’s access to meals is minor compared to the overall funding required for educational institutions. He asserted that the necessity for food in schools is as critical as providing textbooks to students.

The New Hampshire Senate Education Committee is slated to discuss SB 517 during a hearing scheduled for January 27.