Texas House Bill HB275

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/17/08

Caption

Relating to methods to increase the number of students who participate in school breakfast programs.

Impact

The implementation of HB275 is intended to address nutritional deficiencies among students, especially in areas where educational institutions currently struggle with breakfast participation rates. By providing grants for schools to develop and expand breakfast programs, the state aims to ensure that more children have access to nutritious meals during the school day. The competitive grant program outlined in the bill allows schools to receive necessary funding for labor costs, equipment purchases, and outreach efforts to promote breakfast availability.

Summary

House Bill 275 proposes methods to increase the number of students participating in the school breakfast programs within Texas schools. The bill amends the Agriculture Code, establishing initiatives requiring school districts to utilize their school health advisory councils to recommend strategies for enhancing breakfast program participation. A key focus is on educating parents about the importance of breakfast for children's health. The bill encourages schools with high percentages of students qualifying for free or reduced-price breakfast to offer free meals to all students, regardless of family income.

Contention

The bill could face challenges concerning its funding and the practical execution of the initiatives it proposes. Schools might encounter obstacles in the wake of budgetary constraints or existing infrastructure limitations. Some stakeholders may voice concerns regarding the efficacy of such initiatives without additional support systems in place. Ensuring widespread participation in the breakfast program in diverse school settings may require tailored approaches, which could complicate the uniform implementation suggested by the bill.