Rachel Barclay

HB665 would increase eligibility for free school lunches to families at up to 300% of the federal poverty level. Currently, free and reduced-price meals in New Hampshire are capped at 185% of the poverty level, or $55,500 of combined income for a family of four, under the Federal lunch program. The state government would pick up the additional cost between 185% and 300% of the federal poverty level. The threshold to qualify for school vouchers is higher - 350% of the federal poverty level, equal to $109,200 for a family of four. If the money is there to totally remove any income caps on vouchers, as is being pushed by Republican legislators, it should certainly be there for children who have food insecurity. Students learn better when they are eating well. Numerous studies show that adequate nutrition supports better learning, as well as physical and mental health. Recent data from the Food Research & Action Center shows that participation in free school meal programs reduces food insecurity, obesity rates, and poor health among participating students. Access to school meals improves attendance rates, as well as student behavior. This not only leads to stronger student performance, but greater educational attainment over the long-term, boosting the financial health of our state. Our support of the nutrition of Granite State children is an investment in our state's future workforce. With rising food costs (only going to rise more with Trump's tariffs and other policies!), food insecurity is a real issue for many families. The managers of local food pantries and food banks across the state have seen sizable increases in need over the past few years. A similar bill narrowly missed passing in the House last year. The House was deadlocked and the House Speaker Rep Packard (R) cast the deciding vote. Let's be vocal! Many other states have even broader eligibility.